by Partha Nandi, MD
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Let’s talk about the second most common cause of death worldwide, stroke. A stroke or cerebrovascular accident (CVA) happens when the blood flow to the brain is disrupted. This area with decreased flow cannot function well and causes problems for the patient. The decrease in blood supply can be because of ischemia, lack of blood supply, hemorrhage, or bleeding.
Strokes are medical emergencies and can lead to death. Early treatment is critical in preventing permanent damage.
Risk factors for stroke include hypertension, smoking, high cholesterol and diabetes. Controlling these factors can help to prevent strokes.
The diagnosis of stroke starts with physical examination. Brain imaging with CT scan or MRI is critical to find brain tissue damage and also to find hemorrhages, tumors or lack of blood flow.
Once diagnosed, emergency treatment can be given depending on what’s causing the stroke. If there’s a lack of blood flow or ischemia, clot breaking drugs can be given within 3 hours of the stroke. An aspirin is important to give immediately after an ischemic stroke to prevent another one. For hemorrhagic stroke, the treatment concentrates on controlling the bleeding and reducing pressure in the brain.
Partha’s Prescriptions for Stroke
- Prevention is the key. Exercise regularly, decrease stress, control your blood pressure and cholesterol and stop smoking. These steps can help prevent stroke.
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If you or a loved one show signs of stroke, act FAST.
F (Face)-ask the person to smile and note if there is a droop
A (Arms)-ask the person to raise both arms and note if one drifts down
S (Speech)-note if the speech is slurred
T (Time)-if any signs of stroke call 911 - If you or a family member had a stroke, a team approach is critical in the stroke recovery phase. Work together and join the National Stroke Association at www.stroke.org to help the patient and the families.
- Join the Stroke Advocacy Network and ask your elected officials to advocate for policies that assist stroke victims and their caregivers
