Stroke is one of the medical emergencies that can cause permanent disability or even death if not treated quickly. In Indonesia, stroke is the number one cause of death and a major contributor to disability. The increasing incidence of stroke is caused by unhealthy lifestyles, comorbidities such as high blood pressure, diabetes and lack of public knowledge about the early signs of stroke.
This article will discuss in full what a stroke is, the early signs to watch out for, and the dangers that can arise if a stroke is not treated immediately.
What is a Stroke?
Stroke is a condition when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, either due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). When the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, brain cells will lack oxygen and nutrients, so that brain cells die within minutes. This can cause permanent damage to the affected part of the brain, and the impact depends on the location and severity of the stroke.
Types of Stroke:
- Ischemic Stroke :
A type of stroke caused by a blockage in a blood vessel in the brain, often caused by a blood clot that breaks away from a blood vessel plaque (thrombus) or another source such as the heart that travels through the blood vessel (embolus). About 87% of strokes are ischemic strokes. - Hemorrhagic Stroke :
This type of stroke is caused by a ruptured blood vessel in the brain, which causes increased pressure inside the brain and presses on the part of the brain that can be life-threatening. This type of stroke usually occurs due to uncontrolled high blood pressure or blood vessel disorders. - Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) :
Often called a "mini stroke," a TIA is a temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain that causes symptoms similar to a stroke but resolves within minutes or hours. Although temporary, a TIA is a serious warning sign of a greater risk of stroke later on.
Recognize the Signs of Stroke
Recognizing stroke symptoms as early as possible is very important to speed up medical treatment and minimize its impact. One easy way to recognize the signs of stroke is with the "FAST" method :
F - Face Drooping
Notice if one side of the face appears to droop or is asymmetrical when smiling.
A - Arm Weakness (Weak Arm)
Ask the person to raise both arms. If one arm seems weak or drooping, it could be a sign of a stroke.
S - Speech Difficulty
Pay attention to whether the person has difficulty speaking, slurred speech, or is unable to repeat simple sentences.
T - Time to Call Emergency
If any of the above signs appear, call emergency medical services immediately. Quick treatment can reduce brain damage that causes disability and death.
In addition to the FAST method, some other symptoms that you should also be aware of include:
- Sudden confusion
- Difficulty seeing in one or both eyes
- Balance and coordination disorders
- Sudden dizziness or severe headache for no apparent reason
- Sudden numbness of the face, hand, or foot (especially on one side of the body)
The Dangers of Stroke If Not Treated Immediately
Stroke not only causes temporary disruption of body functions, but can cause long-term consequences and even death. Here are some serious dangers of stroke:
- Permanent Disability
Stroke can damage the parts of the brain that control movement, language and comprehension. Many stroke survivors experience partial paralysis (hemiplegia), impaired language and comprehension (aphasia), or loss of control over other body functions.
- Cognitive and Emotional Disorders
Stroke can cause decreased thinking ability, memory loss and forgetfulness (dementia), or behavioral changes. In addition, stroke sufferers are also susceptible to depression and anxiety disorders due to changes in their living conditions.
- Difficulty Swallowing and Speaking
Brain damage from stroke can interfere with the ability to speak fluently (dysarthria) and swallow (dysphagia), which impacts nutritional intake and the risk of choking.
- Secondary Complications
Stroke sufferers are at high risk of experiencing complications such as respiratory tract infections, pressure sores (decubitus), deep vein thrombosis, and recurrent strokes.
- Death
Without prompt and appropriate treatment, stroke can be fatal within hours. Therefore, the speed of responding to symptoms is very important in determining the outcome of stroke patients.
Stroke Risk Factors
Knowing the risk factors for stroke can help us take preventive measures. Risk factors are divided into two categories: those that can be controlled and those that cannot be controlled.
Controllable Risk Factors:
- High blood pressure (Hypertension)
- Diabetes mellitus
- High cholesterol
- Smoke
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Overweight (Obesity)
- Inactive and lazy lifestyle (sedentary lifestyle)
- Heart disease (atrial fibrillation, heart failure)
- Excessive stress
Uncontrollable Risk Factors:
- Age : Risk increases with age.
- Gender : Men have a slightly higher risk.
- Family history : Stroke can be genetic.
- Have had a stroke or TIA before
Stroke Prevention Steps
Stroke can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle and managing existing medical conditions. Here are some effective ways to prevent stroke:
- Blood Pressure Control
Hypertension is the biggest risk factor for stroke. Routinely check your blood pressure and take medication regularly as recommended by your doctor. - Manage Blood Sugar and Cholesterol
People with diabetes and high cholesterol must maintain their diet and take medication according to their doctor's recommendations. - Stop Smoking and Cut Down on Alcohol
Substances in cigarettes can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of blood clots forming. - Regular Exercise
Physical activity of at least 30 minutes a day can improve heart health and blood vessel flow. - Healthy Eating Patterns
Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and avoid foods high in saturated fat and excess salt. - Manage Stress
Meditation, relaxation, or a calming hobby can help lower blood pressure.
When to See a Doctor?
If you or someone around you shows signs of stroke, do not delay seeking medical help . Go to the nearest hospital or call an ambulance for immediate help. Stroke treatment is effective if done within 3 hours of symptoms appearing.
Article written by Dr. Poek Denny Purbawijaya, Sp.N (Neurology Specialist Doctor, EMC Cikarang Hospital).