Stroke

What is a stroke?

A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a vascular condition that occurs when the blood vessels that carry blood to the brain become blocked or rupture, preventing blood flow and causing paralysis in the area of the brain affected by the lack of blood supply

An Ischemic Stroke (IS) is the most common type and is caused by a lack of blood in a specific area of the brain due to the obstruction of an artery. A Hemorrhagic Stroke (HS), on the other hand, is caused by bleeding due to the rupture of a blood vessel. In both types of stroke, when blood—carrying nutrients and oxygen—fails to reach certain areas of the brain, the neurons lose function, resulting in signs and symptoms that depend on the region of the brain involved

Strokes can affect people of all ages, although they are rarer in childhood. They should be considered a brain attack, as they are one of the leading causes of death and/or disability in the adult population in Brazil

There is another condition called a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which involves a temporary interruption of blood flow, causing signs and symptoms similar to those of a stroke, but which resolve spontaneously in a short period. A TIA should be seen as a warning sign that something is wrong. Its cause must be identified and treated before a full stroke occurs

Stroke Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of a stroke begin suddenly and may appear individually or in combination, as listed below:

• weakness, numbness, or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg on one side of the body
• vision changes: blurred or lost vision, especially in one eye; episode of double vision; sensation of a “shadow” over the visual field
• difficulty speaking or understanding what others are saying, even the simplest phrases
• dizziness without a clear cause, imbalance, lack of coordination while walking, or sudden falls, usually accompanied by the symptoms mentioned above
• severe and persistent headaches
• difficulty swallowing

Causes

Acanthosis nigricans is often associated with obesity, diabetes, and hormonal imbalances. However, in some cases, it may be a sign of cancer, highlighting the importance of consulting a physician

Types of Stroke

There are two types of stroke: Ischemic Stroke (IS) and Hemorrhagic Stroke (HS)

Diagnosis

Stroke diagnosis is only possible through imaging tests that allow identification of both the affected area of the brain and the type of stroke that occurred

Treatment

Managing underlying conditions such as diabetes and obesity is essential in the treatment of acanthosis nigricans. Although topical medications are available, their effectiveness is limited. Consult a physician for proper guidance

The most common exam is a cranial CT scan. Quickly identifying symptoms is very important for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Upon recognizing the symptoms, it is essential to seek medical help immediately. Every minute earlier that the patient is treated by professionals increases their chances of recovery

Stroke Treatment

Treatment for each type of stroke is different. For more details, visit: ischemic stroke (IS) and hemorrhagic stroke (HS)

References

Ministério da Saúde

Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde 

Sociedade Brasileira de AVC

By Einstein Editorial Board