Teaching video link: youtu.be/skKw9YJ9pNc&list=PLOlpsJ0eDlASRw1LywI2iGfzDTqxlAYFJ What is a Stroke?
Definition: Interruption or reduction of blood supply to the brain Result: Brain tissue deprived of oxygen and nutrients Consequence: Rapid brain cell death Key point: Time-sensitive emergency requiring immediate attention Types of Stroke 1. Ischemic Stroke (Most Common) Cause: Blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain Common blockage: Blood clot (thrombus) Often occurs in: Arteries narrowed by fatty deposits (atherosclerosis) Treatment focus: Restoring blood flow quickly 2. Hemorrhagic Stroke Cause: Blood vessel in the brain leaks or bursts Result: Bleeding within the brain (brain hemorrhage) Common factors: High blood pressure Aneurysms (bulges in weakened blood vessel walls) Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) Treatment focus: Controlling bleeding and reducing brain pressure Recognizing Stroke Symptoms: FAST F: Face drooping A: Arm weakness S: Speech difficulty T: Time to call emergency services Remember: Quick action is crucial for better outcomes Subtypes of Ischemic Stroke 1. Cerebral Thrombosis Blood clot forms within an artery supplying the brain Often due to plaque buildup in the artery 2. Cerebral Embolism Blood clot travels from elsewhere in the body to the brain Common risk factor: Atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) Subtypes of Hemorrhagic Stroke 1. Intracerebral Hemorrhage Bleeding within the brain tissue Often linked to high blood pressure or aging blood vessels 2. Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Bleeding between the brain and skull Often caused by a ruptured aneurysm Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) Also known as a "mini-stroke" Stroke-like symptoms that resolve within minutes to 24 hours No permanent damage, but a crucial warning sign Indicates increased risk of future stroke Requires immediate medical attention Diagnosing Stroke Physical and neurological examination Blood tests Imaging tests: CT scans MRI scans CT angiography Traditional angiography Treatment: Ischemic Stroke Medications Clot-busting drugs (e.g., alteplase) Brain swelling reduction medications Procedures Mechanical thrombectomy (for large clots) Treatment: Hemorrhagic Stroke Medications Blood pressure control Brain swelling reduction Surgical Options Surgical clipping (for aneurysms) Endovascular coiling Stroke Prevention: Lifestyle Changes Adopt a balanced diet Exercise regularly (30 minutes most days) Quit smoking Moderate alcohol consumption Stroke Prevention: Medical Management Control blood pressure Manage cholesterol levels Control diabetes Take prescribed medications as directed Key Takeaways Stroke is a medical emergency Quick recognition and action are crucial Prevention involves managing risk factors Lifestyle changes and medical management are key to reducing stroke risk
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