How to manage stroke

Medical experts explain that lack of oxygen and glucose (sugar) flowing to the brain leads to the death of brain cells or brain damage. This in turn often results in impairment in speech, movement and memory. The two main types of stroke, doctors say, are the Ischemic stroke and Hemorrhagic stroke. Ischemic stroke, according to […]

Medical experts explain that lack of oxygen and glucose (sugar) flowing to the brain leads to the death of brain cells or brain damage. This in turn often results in impairment in speech, movement and memory. The two main types of stroke, doctors say, are the Ischemic stroke and Hemorrhagic stroke.

Ischemic stroke, according to public health journal, occurs when an artery, which the brain depends on to bring fresh blood from the heart and lungs, is blocked. This form of stroke accounts for about 75 per cent of all strokes and occurs when a blood clot, or thrombus forms that blocks blood flow to part of the brain. If a blood clot forms somewhere in the body and breaks off to become free-floating, it is called an embolus. This wandering clot may be carried through the blood stream to the brain where it can cause Ischemic stroke.

Hemorrhagic stroke, on the other hand, occurs when a blood vessel on the brain’s surface ruptures and fills the space between the brain and skull with blood or when a defective artery in the brain bursts and fills the surrounding tissue with cerebral hemorrhage. Both result in a lack of blood flow to the brain and a buildup of blood that puts too much pressure on the brain.

Minor strokes may result in minor problems such as limb weakness while the larger ones may lead to paralysis or death.

Speaking on the causes, Dr. Kingsley Okeke of Medical Centre, Federal Polytechnic Bida said stroke can be caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure which deprives brain cells of blood and dangerously increases pressure on the body.

He stressed that family history of stroke, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and heavy use of alcohol are also considered as determinants of individual stroke. Meanwhile, a recent research by scientists at the University of Texas Health Science, Houston, discovered that a single gene defect can lead to stroke and a deadly disease of the Aorta and Coronary Arteries.

In an article dated August 17, 2009 an online Medical News Today (MNT), said the common symptoms of stroke are dizziness, trouble walking, loss of balance and coordination, speech problems, double vision and a sudden severe headache. While smaller strokes (or silent strokes) may not cause any symptom, they can still damage brain tissue. Adding to this, Dr Kingsley said this kind of stroke comes without signs and is commonly referred to as silent killer.

Then how could we prevent stroke? To Dr. Okeke, much of stroke prevention is based on living a healthy lifestyle, knowing and controlling blood pressure, lowering cholesterol and fat intake, drinking alcohol only in moderation, treating diabetes properly, exercising regularly, managing stress, and visiting hospital at least twice in a month. Other tips include; knowing and identifying arterial fibrillation, stop smoking, treat circulation problems and prevent transient Ischemic attack.

Moreover, a research led by Dr. Lenore Arab, a Professor at the Department of Medicine And Biological Chemistry, David Gaffen School of Medicine University of California, supported by the UK-based Lipton Institute of Tea, found that drinking three cups of tea per day reduces the risk of stroke.

It is therefore good for our governments at all levels to sensitise the people on the dangers of stroke. Medical practitioners should also be encouraged through attractive remuneration to help curb the problem of frequent strike by health workers while sophisticated health equipment should be provided in hospitals and other health centres to help medical practitioners carryout their duties better.

Ebbo is a student of Mass Communication, Federal Polytechnic Bida.