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Stroke
 

Definition

        

     The term Stroke is commonly used to describe a sudden interruption of bloodflow to the brain that causes brain damage and loss of function.

Causes

All forms of stroke are caused by a loss of circulation to the brain, disrupting the neurological functions that correspond to the affected area.

  • High blood pressure
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Elevated blood cholesterol
  • Liver disease
  • Brain tumors

Symptoms

The warning signs of stroke are:

   

  • Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm and leg on one side of the body
  • Vomiting
  • Headache
  • Paralysis, speech problems, or other specific neurological problems
  • Loss of balance or coordination
  • Dimness or loss of vision, particularly in only one eye.
  • Unexplained dizziness, unsteadiness or sudden falls
  • Loss of consciousness

Screening and Diagnostics

  • Examination:

    1. Eye gaze palsies (inability to move eyeball) may be present

    2. Pupils may not be equal

    3. Paralysis may be present

  • Imaging:

- Angiography (dye injected and X-Rays taken) to rule out an aneurysm

  • Laboratory:

- Complete blood count, platelets, Prothrombin time (PT), partial thromboplastin time (PTT), bleeding times, kidney function (BUN and Creatinine), and liver function tests

  • Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) should not be done because it may cause brain herniation.

Treatment

Treatment for a stroke may include the following:

    

  • Medications that dissolve blood clots or prevent new ones from forming
  • Surgical decompression if a hematoma (blood clot) puts pressure on the brain
  • A rehabilitation program at a special facility or in the patient’s home to help recovery.

Complications

  • Problems due to loss of mobility (joint contractures, pressure sores)

  • Permanent loss of movement or sensation of a part of the body

  • Bone fractures

  • Muscle spasticity

  • Permanent loss of brain functions

  • Reduced communication or social interaction

  • Reduced ability to function or care for self

  • Decreased life span

  • Side effects of medications

  • Aspiration

  • Malnutrition

Prevention

     To help prevent a stroke:

  • Get screened for high blood pressure at least every two years, especially if you have a family history of high blood pressure.

  • Have your cholesterol checked.

  • Treat high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease if present.

  • Follow a low-fat diet.

  • Quit smoking.

  • Exercise regularly.

  • Lose weight if you are overweight.

  • Avoid excessive alcohol use (no more than 1 to 2 drinks per day).

 
 

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