Strokes: A Common Brain Injury

Strokes are the number one cause of adult disability in the U.S. This very common brain injury can be experienced by people of all backgrounds; in fact, it is the number three cause of all deaths. Read on to learn what causes this brain injury, how to deal with the aftermath, and what you can do to lower your own risk factors for stroke.

The Causes of Stroke

The root cause of stroke is a blocked or burst blood vessel in the brain, which stops blood from flowing to this vital organ. Also called anoxia, the lack of blood and oxygen to the brain can have irreversible damage if it lasts too long. Anoxia can cause brain cell death, leading to cognitive impairment.

There are two main classes of stroke: ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. In ischemic stroke, a blood vessel becomes clotted. Ischemic stroke can be caused by narrow arteries, or by clots in other parts of the body that have broken off and traveled to the brain. Hemorrhagic stroke is caused by a burst blood vessel in the brain; the resulting blood flow in the brain damages cells.

Signs of a Stroke

Depending on which parts of the brain were damaged, a person may have various symptoms following a stroke. The symptoms are usually strongest directly following the stroke, and they may present on and off for a day or two afterwards.

  • Sudden and severe headache
  • Muscle weakness on one side of the body
  • Decreased vision
  • Trouble speaking
  • Confusion
  • Problems swallowing
  • Dizziness
  • Incontinence

If you suspect you or your loved one has had a stroke, go to the emergency room immediately. Consider checking your blood pressure; high BP may be sign of stroke. The doctor can perform several tests to find the place of the stroke and to rule out any other possible causes for the symptoms. CT scans, MRI, echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, and spinal taps are all used to test for strokes.

Treatments For Stroke

Strokes are a medical emergency, and most require a stay in the hospital. Short term treatments often include means to break up clots and reduce blood pressure, such as blood thinners and angiography. If the stroke is caused by bleeding, surgery may be necessary to remove excess fluid in the brain. Stroke sufferers may initially need feeding tubes, due to trouble swallowing.

Depending on the severity of the stroke, different types of therapy may be undergone after the stroke victim has left the hospital. Physical therapy can help with movement and range of motion issues, whereas speech pathologists can help restore lost language abilities. Occupational therapists can help victims recover the skills necessary to go back to work. Those who experience very severe strokes may require assisted care in a nursing home or similar facility.  

Complications from Stroke

As stroke is a brain injury, it can come with some permanent complications and impairment of function. Stroke can result in decreased sensation in the body, decreased motor function, trouble speaking and communicating, and a decreased life span. Other side effects are decreased independence and trouble with social interactions.

Reducing Your Chances for Stroke

  • Moderate drinking (1-2 drinks per day)
  • Eat a low-fat diet
  • Exercise regularly
  • Stop smoking
  • Check your blood pressure and cholesterol regularly

For More Information:

Article Sources

Stroke-All Information. (2006) University of Maryland Medical Center.