29th of October is observed as World Stroke Day globally. The theme for the day this year revolves around time, as time is of the essence in the case of stroke management. A stroke is a medical emergency where the blood supply is cut off to the vital parts of the body and irreversible damage is caused due to lack of oxygen. This oxygen-starved condition will lead to irreversible damage and cell death in the cells of the brain and or heart. Worldwide, one in every four people who have crossed the age of 25 is at risk of developing a stroke.
Stroke is an age-dependent condition, with risk increasing in direct proportion to age advancement. Every year we at Manipal Hospitals Kharadi mark the day by connecting to the patients and families we have treated in the past and aligning activities aimed at promoting awareness about stroke, its causes symptoms, and treatment. Stroke is broadly classified into three categories-
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Ischemic Stroke
Arterial blockage or flow obstruction in blood vessels is the major cause of Ischemic stroke. Deposits of plaque in the blood vessels are a major reason for the blockage, and these can lead to a complete stoppage of blood flow. These plaques are caused by diets high in saturated fats and are observed in people with high lipid profiles of blood. Getting regular blood checkups is one way to monitor risk factors.
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Hemorrhagic Stroke
Hemorrhagic stroke occurs in a condition when there is internal hemorrhaging, which may cause an imbalance of fluid pressure in the brain. Ideally, the brain has a very delicate fluid balance which is maintained by the transport of body fluids. If there is any internal hemorrhaging, the fluid pressure is hampered. This excess fluid puts pressure on the brain cells and may cause the cells to rupture.
In most cases, such ruptures of blood vessels are caused by elevated blood pressure (Hypertension)
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Transient Ischemic Attack or Mini Stroke
A mini-stroke is just as serious a medical emergency as any other. Doctors consider it as a warning sign of underlying risks for stroke. As of now, it is difficult to differentiate between a stroke and a mini-stroke by physical symptoms. It is only after comprehensive analysis and tests that a doctor can verify if your stroke was a mini-stroke or not.
What To Do When You Have A Stroke?
A stroke is a medical emergency, and it is important to act proactively in case you ever find someone suffering from it. Identifying signs of stroke are:
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Facial Drooping
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Arm weakness on one side of the body
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Slurring of Speech or speech difficulty
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Dizziness/ Vision Loss
Time is of the essence and each minute is valuable for a person suffering a stroke. The first 90 minutes after a stroke are called the golden period of treatment. Doctors advice is to ensure the patient receives medical care within this period to minimize damage to the body and preserve life. To have the best treatment, visit our neurology center in Kharadi, Pune.
It is very important for a stroke patient to reach a stroke-ready hospital without wasting time on proper treatment. Stroke ready hospital is one where facilities of CT Scans, MRI scans, Cath Lab, Neurologists, Neurointervention radiologists,s and neurosurgeons are promptly available. Newer treatments of ischemic stroke such as IV thrombolysis( a blood thinning medication is injected to lyse the clot) and mechanical thrombectomy(the clot is removed using catheters and stents through a pinhole) can be life-saving if performed as early as possible after the onset of stroke.
Risk Factors for Stroke
One of the biggest risk factors identified for stroke is high blood pressure or Hypertension. While hypertension leads to a build-up of pressure against the walls of blood vessels, the deposit of plaque causes blood flow obstruction. The gradual build-up of cholesterol and plaque in the blood vessels over the years is a matter of
Other risk factors which further this condition include:
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Stressful lifestyle
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An unhealthy diet rich in saturated fats
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Alcohol abuse
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Tobacco consumption
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Obesity
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Genetic factors
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Depression
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Physical inactivity
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Stress
Risk Management in Stroke
Stroke as a medical condition has spiraled to alarming rates in the fast-developing world. Stress is a major factor to blame along with fast-paced lifestyles that leave little room for physical activity or relaxation. While it is very difficult to predict a stroke occurrence, it is relatively easy to help prevent one. Preventive medical care is your first shield of defense.
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Regular Check-Ups
Going for regular health check-ups at least twice a year can help you monitor your overall health and detect risks well in advance. Consult with our expert neurologist in Kharadi, Pune to know more.
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Maintaining An Active Lifestyle
Regular physical activity, exercise or yoga, depending on the age and lifestyle can help to keep the body active. Regular physical activity is known to elevate mood and bring in positivity when done in groups or with family. Hence, a good way to relieve stress and relax the mind. This can help control hypertension to some extent.
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Healthy Eating
You are what you eat, and eating right is the first step to preventive healthcare. If you have any of the underlying risk factors of developing a Stroke, consult with your doctor today. At Manipal Hospitals, we have specialized dieticians trained to help you plan your diet charts best suitable for your health condition, age, lifestyle and body needs. Book your appointment today, and work on becoming the healthier version of yourself.
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Relaxation and Meditation
Rest and relaxation are as much a part of the basic needs of the body as exercise and physical activity. An active lifestyle and information overload demand that we take a break and give ourselves the much-needed break. Meditation and other group activities can help relieve stress.
Consultation and Care
Even when you are taking all the preventive steps and maintaining a well-balanced life for holistic health, make sure you are getting regular health checkups. If you are unable to maintain a healthy lifestyle or have one or more risk factors, consult a professional near you.
Manipal Hospitals has some of the best doctors for stroke, equipped with the most advanced medical technologies for diagnostics and treatment. Book an appointment today for an accurate health assessment and advice on how to take care of yourself and your loved ones today.
Visit our blog page to read more about brain stroke symptoms and treatment and gather reliable information on various diseases, their treatment and lifestyle topics under one roof by our highly experienced doctors.
Manipal Hospitals, Kharadi, Pune
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