Strokes

Strokes

A Stroke (pronounced: /stroʊk/), also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical condition where the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die within minutes.

Etymology

The term "stroke" comes from the Old English word "strac," meaning "strike," and the Latin word "ictus," meaning "sudden attack." The term "cerebrovascular accident" is derived from the Latin words "cerebrum" (brain), "vasculum" (small vessel), and "accidere" (to happen).

Types of Strokes

There are three main types of strokes:

• Ischemic stroke: This is the most common type of stroke, accounting for about 85% of all cases. It occurs when a blood clot blocks or plugs a blood vessel in the brain.

• Hemorrhagic stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, spilling blood into the spaces surrounding brain cells.

• Transient ischemic attack (TIA): Also known as a "mini-stroke," a TIA is a temporary period of symptoms similar to those of a stroke.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a stroke can include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech; sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes; sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination; or sudden severe headache with no known cause.

Treatment

Treatment for stroke depends on whether it's ischemic or hemorrhagic. Treatment for ischemic stroke includes anticoagulants and thrombolytics, while treatment for hemorrhagic stroke often involves surgery.

Prevention

Prevention of stroke includes controlling high blood pressure, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, controlling diabetes, and drinking alcohol in moderation or not at all.

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