Cerebrovascular Stroke

What is a CV Stroke?

A Cerebrovascular Stroke (commonly known as a stroke) is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. Strokes can result in permanent brain damage, disability, or even death if not treated promptly. There are two main types: ischemic stroke, caused by a blocked artery, and hemorrhagic stroke, caused by a ruptured blood vessel. A transient ischemic attack (TIA) or mini-stroke is a temporary blockage that serves as a warning sign. Immediate recognition and rapid response are critical to minimize long-term damage. Risk increases with age, but younger individuals with underlying conditions can also be affected. Rehabilitation and lifestyle changes are essential for recovery and stroke prevention.

Symptoms and Warning Signs

Stroke symptoms usually appear suddenly and may include:

  • Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side)
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or understanding speech
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Sudden difficulty walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
  • Sudden severe headache with no known cause
  • Trouble swallowing or sudden nausea without a clear reason
  • Loss of consciousness or brief blackout spells in severe cases

Use the FAST test to remember warning signs:

  • F – Face drooping: One side of the face may droop or feel numb. Ask the person to smile.
  • A – Arm weakness: One arm may drift downward or feel weak. Ask the person to raise both arms.
  • S – Speech difficulty: Slurred or strange speech. Ask them to repeat a simple sentence.
  • T – Time to call emergency services immediately.

Prompt treatment is essential — every second counts. Brain cells die rapidly during a stroke, and early medical intervention can significantly reduce the risk of long-term disability or death. If you suspect a stroke, do not wait — seek emergency medical help immediately.

Causes and Risk Factors

Causes:

Strokes occur due to interrupted blood flow to the brain. This can happen because of:

  • Blood clots or narrowed arteries (ischemic stroke – most common)
  • Burst or leaking blood vessels (hemorrhagic stroke)
  • Temporary blockage in a TIA (warning stroke)

Risk Factors:

Modifiable Risks:

  • High blood pressure (leading cause)
  • Diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • Smoking or tobacco use
  • Obesity and physical inactivity
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Atrial fibrillation or irregular heartbeat

Non-Modifiable Risks:

  • Age over 55
  • Family history of stroke or heart disease
  • Previous stroke or TIA
  • Gender (men are at higher risk, but women are more likely to die from stroke)
  • Certain ethnicities (e.g., higher risk among South Asians and African descent)

Diagnosis and Emergency Treatment

Diagnosis:

When stroke symptoms are present, doctors may use:

  • CT Scan or MRI: To detect brain damage or bleeding
  • Blood Tests: To assess clotting, sugar levels, or infection
  • Carotid Ultrasound: To check for narrowed arteries
  • Echocardiogram: To evaluate the heart as a source of clots
  • Cerebral Angiogram: To view blood flow in brain arteries

Emergency Treatment:

  • Ischemic Stroke:
    • Clot-busting medications (e.g., tPA) if given within 3–4.5 hours
    • Mechanical thrombectomy for larger clots
  • Hemorrhagic Stroke:
    • Blood pressure control
    • Surgery to stop bleeding or relieve pressure
  • TIA:
    • Immediate evaluation and preventive treatment to avoid full stroke

Rapid emergency care can save brain function and reduce disability.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery depends on the stroke’s severity, location, and how quickly treatment was given. Rehabilitation is key and may include:

  • Physical therapy: To regain strength and movement
  • Occupational therapy: To relearn daily activities
  • Speech-language therapy: To improve speaking, swallowing, or comprehension
  • Cognitive therapy: For memory, attention, and problem-solving skills
  • Emotional support and counseling: To manage depression or anxiety post-stroke

Early rehab can begin in the hospital and may continue for months or years at home or in specialized centers.

Prevention Tips

Up to 80% of strokes are preventable with healthy lifestyle choices and regular medical care. Focus on:

  • Control blood pressure and manage diabetes/cholesterol
  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
  • Eat a heart-healthy diet with low salt and processed foods
  • Exercise regularly — at least 30 minutes daily
  • Treat heart conditions like atrial fibrillation
  • Get routine health screenings, especially with risk factors or family history