Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death in the country. It occurs when the blood flow to the brain is blocked and blood vessels were ruptured. This blockage or rupture prevents the brain from getting oxygen and nutrients in the blood. As a result, parts of the brain become damaged and brain cells will die within few minutes.
Ischemic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, and transient ischemic attack are the three main types of stroke. Ischemic stroke occurs when there is a blockage in the artery that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the brain. On the other hand, a hemorrhagic stroke happens when an artery in the brain ruptures. Too much pressure from the leaked blood causes damage to the brain. Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is also known as “mini-stroke.” Unlike ischemic and hemorrhagic, the transient ischemic attack happens when the blood flow to the brain is blocked for a short period. It usually lasted no more than 5 minutes. This type of stroke is a warning sign for a future major stroke. To prevent this to happen, people can take steps by seeking immediate medical attention.
Many risk factors can increase the risk of stroke. Addressing risk factors of stroke can help in reducing the number of mortality related to this disease. Factors including high blood pressures, being overweight, physical inactivity, drinking alcohol, smoking, and use of illegal drugs, high cholesterol, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases can increase your risk of stroke. Stroke can cause disabilities, and worst, death. Complications may occur depending on how long the brain lacks blood flow and which part was affected. Some of the complications may include paralysis, difficulty talking or swallowing, memory loss, difficulty in controlling emotions, pain, numbness, and headache accompanied by dizziness or vomiting.
A stroke is a medical emergency. You must act quickly and call the emergency hotline as soon as you notice early signs and symptoms of stroke. A person's brain can get injured within minutes, which could result in death. Learn the early signs and symptoms of stroke to prevent further complications and death.
ZDN DMO II Rowence F. Zorilla, RND
References:
1. Everything You Need to Know About Stroke
https://www.healthline.com/health/stroke
2. Mayo Clinic-Stroke
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stroke/symptoms-causes/syc-20350113
