Ischemic Stroke Prevention And Treatment

Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke, while every 3 minutes and 14 seconds, someone dies of a stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Although it typically strikes people 55 and older, stroke can strike anybody of any age, at any time.

Paralysis, impaired muscle movement, difficulty talking or swallowing, and trouble controlling when you go to the bathroom are some of the long-term problems that one can experience after a stroke.

There are three primary types of strokes: ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, and transient ischemic attack (TIA). According to the CDC, about 87% of all strokes are ischemic strokes, in which blood flow to the brain is blocked.

An ischemic stroke can be prevented. There are also effective treatments that can help prevent disability from ischemic stroke.

In this guide, I'll walk you through the cause, risk factors, early signs, and treatment options for ischemic stroke.

Let’s begin by looking at what a stroke is.

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What Is A Stroke?

A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is disrupted or reduced, leading to damage or death of brain cells. This interruption in blood flow can be caused by either a blockage (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke) in the brain.

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Ischemic Stroke

According to Mayo Clinic, it occurs when there is reduced blood flow to a part of the brain. This can prevent the brain from getting the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function. The brain can become damaged or die as a result.

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Cause Of Ischemic Stroke

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), it is caused by a blood clot (thrombus) forming in an artery supplying blood to the brain. This is often due to atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits (plaques) build up in the arteries and may eventually block blood flow.

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Risk Factors For Ischemic Stroke

Understanding these risk factors can empower you to take proactive steps in living a lifestyle that can help you significantly reduce your likelihood of experiencing an ischemic stroke.

According to NHLBI, factors that you can control account for 82% to 90% of all strokes. These factors include:

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There are other factors that can increase your risk of having a stroke. These factors include:

Age: The risk of stroke increases with age, particularly in individuals over 55.

Substance Abuse: Excessive alcohol consumption or illicit drug use can contribute to high blood pressure and other stroke risk factors.

Gender: Men and women have different stroke risk profiles, with men often experiencing strokes at a younger age, while women face a high risk due to factors like hormonal changes and pregnancy.

Family History of Stroke: Genetic predisposition can increase one's susceptibility to stroke, particularly if family members experienced strokes at a relatively young age.

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Early Warning Signs

The early warning signs of an ischemic stroke can vary from person to person, but it's crucial to recognize them promptly as early intervention can greatly improve outcomes. Remember the acronym FAST to help identify these signs:

Face drooping: One side of the face may droop or feel numb.

How a loved one can recognize this symptom: Ask your loved one to smile, and check if one side of their face is uneven.

Arm weakness: One arm may become weak or numb.

How a loved one can recognize this symptom: Ask your loved one to raise both arms and observe if one arm drifts downward.

Speech difficulty: Speech may become slurred or difficult to understand.

How a loved one can recognize this symptom: Ask your loved one to repeat a simple sentence, and check if their words are coherent.

Time to call emergency services: If you observe any of these signs, it's essential to call for emergency medical assistance immediately. Time is of the essence in treating a stroke.

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In addition to FAST, other early warning signs of an ischemic stroke may include:

Sudden NUMBNESS: Weakness of the face, arm, or leg.

Sudden Severe Headache: A sudden and severe headache.

Confusion or trouble understanding: The person may become confused, have difficulty understanding conversations or may be disoriented about time and place.

Trouble walking or loss of coordination: They may experience dizziness, loss of balance, or have difficulty walking in a coordinated manner.

Vision problems: Blurred or double vision, or sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes.

It's important to note that not all of these signs may be present in every case, and they may vary in intensity.

If you suspect someone is experiencing a stroke, do not wait for symptoms to improve. Seek immediate medical attention by calling your local emergency services or going to the nearest hospital. Early treatment can significantly improve the chances of recovery and reduce the potential long-term effects of a stroke.

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Treatment

Treatment for ischemic stroke focuses on quickly restoring blood flow to the affected part of the brain and preventing further damage. Here are the key approaches to treating an ischemic stroke:

Clot-busting Medications

Tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) is a medication that may be given to dissolve blood clots. It's most effective when administered within a few hours of the onset of symptoms.

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Endovascular Therapy

In this procedure, the doctor will treat the ischemic stroke inside a blocked vessel.

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Drugs Delivered Directly To The Brain

Drugs can be delivered directly to the brain. Using specialized catheters and imaging equipment, doctors navigate through an artery in the groin to reach the site of the clot. Once there, they administer clot-dissolving TPA medication, improving blood flow.

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Removing A Clot With A Stent Retriever

Your doctor may use a stent retriever to remove a blood clot during a stroke. He will thread a thin tube with the retriever through a blood vessel, guiding it to the clot. The retriever expands, gripping the clot, allowing your doctor to safely pull it out, restoring blood flow to the brain.

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Surgeries To Reduce Your Risk Of Having Another Stroke

In some cases, surgery may be performed to remove plaque (cholesterol, fatty substances, and other substances) blocking the carotid artery (the artery that supplies blood to the brain).

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Carotid Endarterectomy

In this procedure, a surgeon makes an incision near the neck to expose the carotid artery, the artery that supplies blood to the brain. They carefully remove the plaque buildup from the artery, restoring normal blood flow to the brain.

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Angioplasty And Stents

During an angioplasty, a doctor threads a catheter with a deflated balloon into a narrowed carotid artery. The balloon is inflated, widening the artery and compressing the plaque. A stent, a mesh-like tube, may be placed to support the artery's walls and maintain blood flow. The balloon is then deflated and removed, leaving the stent in place. This procedure helps restore proper blood circulation.

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Prevention

Preventing ischemic strokes involves addressing modifiable risk factors and making lifestyle changes to promote overall cardiovascular health. Here are several strategies to help prevent ischemic strokes:

Manage Blood Pressure:

Regularly monitor blood pressure and work with a healthcare provider to keep it within a healthy range.

Control Diabetes:

Maintain good control of blood sugar levels through a combination of diet, exercise, medication (if prescribed), and regular monitoring.

Maintain a Healthy Diet:

Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit intake of saturated and trans-fats, sodium, and sugar.

Exercise Regularly:

Engage in regular physical activity to help maintain a healthy weight, control blood pressure, and improve overall cardiovascular health.

Quit Smoking:

Smoking significantly increases the risk of stroke. Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful steps you can take to reduce stroke risk.

Limit Alcohol Intake:

If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For most adults, this means up to one drink per day.

Manage Cholesterol Levels:

Work with a healthcare provider to monitor and control cholesterol levels, particularly LDL ("bad") cholesterol.

Maintain a Healthy Weight:

Achieve and maintain a body weight within a healthy range through a combination of a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Address Sleep Apnea:

If you have sleep apnea, seek treatment to ensure proper oxygen flow during sleep, as this condition can increase stroke risk.

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According to the CDC, these strategies can also help you prevent stroke:

Treat Atrial Fibrillation and Heart Conditions:

If you have atrial fibrillation or other heart conditions, work with a healthcare provider to manage and treat them effectively.

Take Medications as Prescribed:

If you have been prescribed medications for conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol, take them consistently and as directed.

Regular Health Check-ups:

Schedule regular check-ups with a healthcare provider to monitor and manage your overall health.

Adopting these preventive measures can help you significantly reduce your risk of experiencing an ischemic stroke. It's important to work closely with healthcare providers to tailor a prevention plan that is specific to your health needs and circumstances.

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Conclusion

Stroke remains a prevalent health concern in America. Understanding its symptoms and risk factors is paramount in preventing its devastating effects. By staying informed and proactive, you can take crucial steps towards a healthier future.

Remember, adopting a healthy lifestyle and seeking regular check-ups are powerful tools in the fight against stroke.

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Sources are in the comments section below.

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