Understanding strokes can make a huge difference to those affected, as the quicker a stroke is identified the quicker the right help and support can be given.
So what exactly is a stroke?
A stroke is a serious life- threatening medical condition that happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. The impact can depend on the area of the brain that has been injured and whether it was a smaller or a larger stroke.
As with many conditions, a ‘stroke’ is an umbrella term that encompasses several different types of strokes, all of which have their own nuances and severity of impact they have on the sufferer’s lives.
Understanding different types of Strokes
Ischemic stroke also called a “mini stroke” is the most common type of stroke and occurs when a blood vessel supplying the brain becomes blocked or narrowed, reducing blood flow to the brain, and killing brain cells. These usually happen because of blood clots, but they can also happen for other reasons.
Symptoms often include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg. As well as sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, or understanding speech. This is sometimes accompanied by vision problems in one or both eyes.
Immediate emergency treatment is critical to help the brain survive with minimal damage and retain function. Treatments that follow post-Ischemic stroke include medicines to prevent further blood clots and surgery to improve the blood supply to the brain.
However, there are several ways to reduce the risk of transient ischemic attack, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly and not smoking.
Haemorrhagic stroke is a life- threatening neurological emergency that occurs when a blood vessel in or on the brain ruptures and bleeds into the brain’s tissues, ventricles, or both.
This can deprive brain cells and tissues of oxygen and nutrients, whilst causing pressure to build up in surrounding tissues, often leading to further damage.
Symptoms can include a sudden severe headache, especially near the back of the head, inability to move, muscle pain in neck and shoulders, drooping eyelids are just a few examples of some symptoms that indicate a haemorrhagic stroke have happened.
Treatments for post-Haemorrhagic strokes may include surgery to stop the bleeding and relieve pressure on the brain. Medications to reduce swelling, pain, anxiety, headaches, and seizures. Also, rehabilitation can help patients regain normal functioning.
Managing pre-existing health conditions can help prevent or reduce the risk of having a haemorrhagic stroke, alongside eating a balanced diet, and maintaining a heathy weight.
Another type of stroke is a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), which is caused by a temporary disruption in the blood supply to part of the brain, resulting in a lack of oxygen to the brain.
The symptoms are like the others, such as face dropping to one side, not being able to lift the arms, speech may be slurred. As well as difficulty understanding what others are saying, difficulty swallowing and being sick are a few more signs to call 999 immediately.
Treatment will depend on the individual’s circumstances, such as age and medical history. But lifestyle changes, medicines and surgery are all potential treatments for a Transient Ischemic Attack.
Recognising the symptoms of a stroke
The F.A.S.T is a mnemonic acronym that helps people quickly identify the signs and symptoms of a stroke
F: facial dropping
A: arm weakness
S: speech difficulties
T: time to call 999
These signs are what to look for with any type of stroke and the FAST acronym is a straightforward way to make your judgment when identifying if someone you know is experiencing a stroke and how to quickly act on the symptoms.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a stroke and are seeking more information on how our care services can help, head over to our home care section to read more about our care packages and see which one might suit you and your loved ones’ needs.
