Last updated on:

01 Nov 2021 | 04:56 PM (IST)

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Ischemic stroke

Description

A stroke is a medical emergency. Broadly there are two types of stroke, ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. Ischemic stroke is the most common type. It is usually caused by a blood clot that blocks or plugs a blood vessel in the brain. This keeps blood from flowing to the brain. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die.

Causes and Risk Factors

Ischemic stroke accounts for 87% of the total strokes. Common causes include:

1. Stenosis or narrowing of the artery. This can happen because of atherosclerosis, a disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries.

2. Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) occur when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted briefly. Having a TIA can mean you are at risk for having a more serious stroke.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of an ischemic stroke include sudden:

1. Numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side of the body)

2. Confusion, trouble speaking, or understanding speech

3. Trouble seeing in one or both eyes

4. Trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination

5. Severe headache with no known cause

Treatment

It is important to treat strokes as quickly as possible. Treatment includes:

1. Medication such as blood thinners

2. Surgical treatment may be needed to remove the clots

3. Poststroke rehabilitation can help people overcome disabilities caused by stroke damage.

Prevention

Eighty percent of the strokes are preventable by bringing in some minor changes in the lifestyle.

1. Adopt healthy lifestyle habits and manage the risk of diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and blood pressure.

2. Avoid stress

NIH: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

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Disclaimer

Tata 1mg's sole intention is to ensure that its consumers get information that is expert-reviewed, accurate and trustworthy. However, the information contained herein should NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of a qualified physician. The information provided here is for informational purposes only. This may not cover all possible side effects, drug interactions or warnings or alerts. Please consult your doctor and discuss all your queries related to any disease or medicine. We intend to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.