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Every 4 min a life is lost to stroke in India. Stroke is the second most common cause of death by non-communicable disease in India and impacts more people than we know. Understanding the various health conditions which impact us, is the first step towards healthy living. Before we learn about the silent stroke, let us understand what a stroke is. A stroke, also known as a brain attack, is a medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted. This can happen due to two main reasons:
Ischemic Stroke
This is the most common type of stroke, accounting for about 85% of all recorded cases. It happens when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked by a blood clot or plaque clot. This blockage prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching brain cells, causing them to die.
Hemorrhagic Stroke
This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts or leaks. The leaked blood puts pressure on brain cells, damaging them.
Synopsis
What are the Symptoms of stroke?
The silent stroke symptoms vary depending on the location of the blockage and the size of the affected area of the brain.
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Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.
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Difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
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Sudden confusion, dizziness, or loss of balance.
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Vision problems in one or both eyes.
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Severe headache with no known cause.
What is a Silent Stroke?
Now that we understand what a stroke is and what are its common symptoms; Let us learn about the silent stroke. A silent stroke is a stroke that occurs without any noticeable symptoms.
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It happens when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients.
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The damage is usually small and occurs in a part of the brain that doesn't control vital functions, making it go unnoticed.
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Silent strokes are surprisingly common, affecting around 1 in 5 people over the age of 60.
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Silent strokes are more common in women than in men.
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They are more likely to occur in people with risk factors for stroke, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
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Silent strokes are often only detected through brain imaging tests, such as MRI scans.
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This is why people at risk of stroke need to have regular check-ups with their doctor.
Visit the best neurology hospital in Patiala to get the finest treatment.
What happens after a person suffers a silent stroke?
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While silent strokes may not have immediate symptoms, they can still cause damage to the brain.
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This damage can lead to cognitive decline, memory problems, and increased risk of future stroke.
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In some cases, silent strokes can accumulate and eventually lead to dementia.
Treatment for Silent Stroke
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Even though silent strokes don't have noticeable symptoms, they still need to be treated.
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Treatment focuses on managing underlying risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
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This can help prevent future strokes, both silent and symptomatic.
Prevention:
There are many things you can do to reduce your risk of silent stroke, including:
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Eating a healthy diet as per the dietician's advice.
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Maintaining a healthy BMI
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Exercising regularly
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Managing stress calmly
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Quitting smoking and other lifestyle habits that may increase stroke risk.
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Limiting alcohol consumption.
Summary
A stroke can be a life-threatening condition and may happen to anyone. It is important to learn about the common signs and act fast if you find someone showing those signs. Silent stroke is another emerging health condition where stroke signs are not always clearly visible. Manipal Hospitals Patiala has the best neurologist to diagnose and treat complex conditions and give you the best medical care.
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