Ischemic stroke is one of the most common causes of long-term disability and death. Ischemic stroke is a type of stroke with the most prevalence, namely 75%–85% of all types of stroke, which is caused by a blockage of blood vessels in the brain. Ischemic stroke can cause motor dysfunction, including paresis or muscle weakness. Ischemic stroke occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the brain are narrowed or blocked. This blockage is caused by blood clots or blood flow that has decreased dramatically. This problem can also be caused by pieces of plaque due to atherosclerosis that rupture, causing blockages in the blood vessels.
There are two types of ischemic stroke that are prone to occur, namely thrombotic and embolic. Thrombotic stroke occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the arteries that supply blood to the brain. The clot travels through the bloodstream and gets stuck blocking blood flow. An embolic stroke occurs when a blood clot or other debris forms in another part of the body, then moves to the brain.
The main symptom of ischemic stroke is numbness or weakness on one side of the body. Facial paralysis or paralysis. Sudden confusion and difficulty speaking or understanding. Loss of coordination or balance.
When a person has an ischemic stroke the doctor must as soon as possible to restore blood flow to the brain. The most important treatment to be carried out is the administration of drugs that can break up clots and must be given within 4.5 hours of the initial symptoms being felt via an IV. The sooner the drug is given, the better the treatment. Prompt treatment can not only increase the chances of survival, but also reduce the chances of complications.
Another method that can be done is to remove the clot with a stent retriever : using a device attached to the catheter to remove the clot from the blood vessel that is causing the blockage in the brain. This procedure is particularly useful if large lumps are found that cannot be completely dissolved by the drug.
Ischemic stroke can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle and routine check-ups if you have a history of certain diseases. In addition, the way to prevent ischemic stroke is the same as efforts to prevent heart disease, such as:
- Do not smoke
- Maintain ideal body weight
- Control blood pressure and blood sugar levels to stay normal
- Increase consumption of vegetables and fruits
- Exercise regularly, for at least 30 minutes every day
- Do not consume alcoholic beverages
- Manage stress with breathing and relaxation exercises, such as yoga
Article written by dr. Abrar Arham Sp, BS (Neurosurgery Specialist at EMC Pulomas Hospital).