Warning Signs of Brain Stroke

Recognizing the warning signs of a stroke is essential for prompt medical intervention, as timely treatment can significantly minimize damage and improve recovery prospects. A stroke, also known as a Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA), occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. The warning signs of a stroke can vary based on the type of stroke (Ischemic or Hemorrhagic) and the specific area of the brain affected. Two Types of Stroke The most common type of stroke is an Ischemic Stroke, caused by a blood clot. A clot can form in an artery supplying blood to the brain or travel from elsewhere in the body, becoming lodged in a brain artery. When blood can't reach a section of the brain, the tissue in that area dies due to a lack of oxygen. The other type of stroke is a Hemorrhagic Stroke, which occurs when a weak blood vessel bursts due to high blood pressure, causing blood to pool and pressure to build in the brain. Stroke Predisposition: Who Is Likely to Have a Stroke? Anyone can have a stroke, but the risk increases with age. Factors that increase stroke risk include: Family History: A family history of stroke or mini-stroke (transient ischemic attack) increases your risk. Age: People over 65 are at higher risk. Gender: Women are more likely to die from stroke than men. Medical Conditions: Conditions that increase stroke risk include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, cardiovascular disease (like atrial fibrillation), certain blood disorders, pregnancy, cancer, and autoimmune diseases. Lifestyle Factors: Long-term hormone replacement therapies and birth control pills, smoking, physical inactivity, alcohol abuse, and drug use (such as cocaine, heroin, and amphetamines) increase stroke risk. Signs & Symptoms of Stroke Here’s a detailed breakdown of the warning signs and symptoms: Sudden Numbness or Weakness: Typically affects the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body. This can manifest as facial drooping, arm weakness, or difficulty moving a limb. Confusion or Trouble Speaking: Difficulty speaking or understanding speech. This may include slurred speech, trouble finding the right words, or inability to comprehend language. Vision Problems: Sudden blurred or double vision, loss of vision in one or both eyes, or difficulty seeing out of one eye. Severe Headache: A sudden, severe headache with no known cause can indicate a hemorrhagic stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures or leaks. Dizziness or Loss of Balance: Dizziness, loss of coordination, or trouble walking can occur during a stroke, manifesting as sudden vertigo or difficulty maintaining balance. Difficulty Walking: Stumbling, loss of balance, or lack of coordination. Sudden leg weakness may also occur. Facial Drooping: One side of the face may droop or become numb, making it difficult to smile or control facial expressions. This asymmetry is a classic sign of stroke. Sudden Onset of Symptoms: Stroke symptoms usually appear suddenly and can worsen rapidly over minutes to hours. Pay attention to the sudden onset of any unusual symptoms, even if they seem mild initially. Remember the acronym FAST to recognize stroke signs and act quickly: Face Drooping: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop? Arm Weakness: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Speech Difficulty: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech slurred or strange? Time to Call Emergency Services: If you observe any of these signs, call emergency services immediately. Early intervention can save lives and minimize long-term disability. How Is Stroke Diagnosed? A brain stem stroke is a life-threatening emergency. If symptoms suggest a stroke, doctors will likely order imaging tests such as MRI, CT scan, Doppler ultrasound, or angiogram (Digital Subtraction Angiography). Heart function tests may include electrocardiogram and echocardiogram. Additional diagnostic procedures may include blood tests and kidney and liver function tests. Treatment & Approaches for Stroke Interventional or Minimally Invasive Approach In the event of an ischemic stroke, the first line of treatment is to dissolve or remove the blood clot. Clot-busting medications can be given if the stroke is diagnosed quickly enough. Alternatively, a catheter may be used to remove the clot in a procedure called an embolectomy. In some cases, angioplasty and stenting are used to widen and keep an artery open. These interventional procedures are always performed in a CATHLAB, not in an operating theatre, and are conducted by an interventional radiologist or neurologist. Ensure the hospital has both OT and CATHLAB facilities. At Jinkushal Hospital, we have a CATHLAB and operating theatre to manage any complications. Our CATHLAB is equipped with an inbuilt CT scan, enabling us to conduct procedures without the time loss associated with transferring patients for a scan, ensuring precision and reducing complication risks. Surgical Approach For a hemorrhagic stroke, the goal is to stop the bleeding. A surgical procedure called craniotomy involves opening the skull to relieve pressure. If the stroke is due to an aneurysm, a clip may be placed on the aneurysm to stop the bleeding. Medication to reduce clotting might also be required. In the meantime, additional measures may be needed to keep the heart and lungs functioning. Long-Term Outlook A brain stem stroke can result in serious long-term problems. Medication and ongoing therapy, such as physical therapy for regaining motor skills, occupational therapy for daily tasks, and speech therapy for speech and swallowing, may be necessary. Some survivors may face severe disabilities, for which psychological counseling can provide support. Preventing Stroke Despite unavoidable risks, there are steps you can take to decrease your chances of stroke: Eat a low-fat and low-sodium diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish. Exercise regularly. Don’t smoke. Don’t abuse alcohol or drugs. If you are obese or have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or chronic illness, follow your doctor’s recommendations for managing these conditions. If you or someone around you experiences any of these warning signs, call emergency services immediately. Even if symptoms improve or disappear, seek medical attention promptly, as transient symptoms can still indicate a serious underlying condition like a mini-stroke (transient ischemic attack) that requires medical evaluation and treatment. At Jinkushal Cardiac Care & Superspeciality Hospital, our team of highly experienced neurologists and neurosurgeons is equipped to handle any emergency stroke situation.