Stroke In A Nutshell

Stroke is a common neurological disorder affecting various functions of the brain depending upon the area of the brain affected. Stroke can be categorized as ischemic if there is an obstruction in blood supply by clots or haemorrhagic if there is a rupture of a blood vessel supplying to the brain. Mostly stroke occurs all of a sudden but sometimes warning symptoms can occur in a few patients, known as transient ischemic attacks. To ascertain stroke, always remember its symptoms as FAST (Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech abnormalities, and the most important Time). In case of a stroke, it is very important for the patient to reach an equipped Hospital / Stroke Centre within a window period of 4.5 hours. If a patient arrives within this period, a clot-buster injection can be given them, which basically breaks-up the clot that is causing a blockage or disruption in the flow of blood to the brain and helps restore the blood flow to the area of the brain. It is given by intravenous (IV), not by mouth. Also, clot retrieval can be done within 16-24 hrs in indicated patients. Stroke prevention behaviour is another aspect, which needs to be inculcated in our society. Prevention of stroke is mostly related to healthy lifestyle modifications and avoidance of stress. Regular follow-up for hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and hyperlipidaemia, to properly control these disorders also help in preventing stroke. Regular exercise, a healthy diet with low fats, low salts, and lots of vegetables and fruits is advisable to prevent stroke. Following a stroke, many patients develop various deformities and deficits in the functions of the body. Therefore, proper rehabilitation, social, mental, and financial security is an essential part of stroke management. Together, we all can defeat this illness by increasing awareness about stroke and taking the above-mentioned steps.