Understanding Stroke Before It Strikes

Stroke, or cerebrovascular disease, is a major public health issue in Thailand, affecting people of all ages. It is a leading cause of death and disability, with approximately 500,000 patients currently living with the condition.

What Is a Stroke?

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted due to a blocked (ischemic) or ruptured (hemorrhagic) artery. This deprives brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients, causing sudden symptoms such as:

• Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg (typically on one side).

• Difficulty moving or loss of movement.

Causes of Stroke

1. Atherosclerosis:

   • Plaque buildup (fat, cholesterol) in brain arteries due to smoking, high-fat diets, hypertension, or diabetes.

2. Embolism:

   • A blood clot or fatty deposit (e.g., from arrhythmia, heart valve disease, or an enlarged heart) blocks a brain artery.

3. Hemorrhage:

   • Uncontrolled high blood pressure or aneurysms cause arteries to rupture.

Key Risk Factors

1. Hypertension: Weakens artery walls, increasing rupture risk.

2. Smoking: Reduces oxygen levels and thickens blood, impairing brain circulation.

3. High Blood Sugar: Thickens artery walls, narrowing blood flow.

4. High Cholesterol: Plaque buildup narrows arteries, restricting brain blood supply.

5. Unhealthy Lifestyle: Obesity, excessive salt/fat intake, alcohol abuse.

6. Heart Disease: Arrhythmias, valve issues, or heart failure elevate stroke risk.

7. Genetics: Family history of stroke increases susceptibility.

Emergency Symptoms

Seek immediate medical help if you experience:

1. Sudden numbness/weakness in the face, arm, or leg (especially one-sided).

2. Blurred/double vision.

3. Severe, unexplained headache.

4. Dizziness, confusion, or loss of balance.

Treatment Options

1. Emergency Care: Restore blood flow (e.g., clot-busting drugs for ischemic strokes).

2. Medication: Control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.

3. Surgery: Remove clots, repair aneurysms, or relieve brain pressure.

4. Rehabilitation: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy to regain function.

Prevention Tips

• Monitor and manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.

• Quit smoking and limit alcohol.

• Adopt a balanced diet (low salt, low fat) and exercise regularly.

• Screen for heart conditions and follow treatment plans.

Act FAST:

• Face drooping

• Arm weakness

• Speech difficulty

• Time to call emergency services

Consult specialists at Synphaet Hospital for personalized care and prevention strategies.