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There is no specific age at which a person is more likely to experience a stroke, as it can occur at any time and at any age. According to research conducted by a healthcare organization, up to 5000 brain strokes are recorded each day worldwide.

Strokes in the brain are a major contributor to disabilities in individuals. They can affect brain function, leading to speech and emotional expression difficulties. While some strokes may not be severe, others can be fatal.

What is a Stroke?

The primary cause of a stroke is the interruption or reduction of blood flow to the brain. When the brain is deprived of blood, the cells begin to die due to a lack of nutrients and oxygen.

Additionally, strokes are a leading cause of death after heart attacks. It is crucial to seek medical attention and receive prompt treatment if you suspect you may have had a stroke. There are two types of brain strokes: ischemic and hemorrhagic.

• Ischemic Strokes: This occurs when blood flow to the brain is restricted, resulting in the formation of a blood clot in the brain known as cerebral thrombosis. This clot blocks the flow of blood to the brain and its cells begin to fail. The clot can form in the vessels supplying blood to the brain, as well as in the arteries in the neck and upper chest. This is known as embolism.
• Hemorrhagic Strokes: This type of stroke is primarily caused by hypertension and is characterized by bleeding in the brain due to damaged blood vessels. Hemorrhagic strokes can be caused by an AVM (aneurysm or arteriovenous malformation), which is a connection between arteries and veins in the brain. The arteries supply oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the brain, while veins transport oxygen-poor blood from the brain to the heart.

What are the Symptoms of Brain Strokes?

Identifying the signs and symptoms of a stroke in its early stages can provide ample opportunity to seek help and receive effective treatment. Some common symptoms of a stroke include:

• ‍Difficulty Speaking or Understanding: This is a common experience during a stroke, and some people may faint or have trouble comprehending speech.‍
• Paralysis: A stroke can result in partial or complete paralysis of the body, including sudden weakness in the face, arms, legs, or entire body. One side of the body may be affected.‍
• Weak Vision: A sudden loss of vision, which may be temporary, is a symptom of a stroke. This can cause blurriness in one or both eyes.‍
• Headache: Severe headache is a sign of inadequate blood flow to the brain. Taking pain medication and breathing deeply can help alleviate the headache and prevent a stroke.‍
• Loss of Balance: Strokes can also result in loss of balance and difficulty walking. This occurs when the sufferer is physically weak or experiencing depression.

Strategies That Helps in the Prevention of Ischemic Stroke

• Early Detection: Early detection is a crucial factor in preventing and recovering from a stroke. It can save not only your life but also money and time, allowing for a quicker recovery.
• Taking Proper Medications: Doctors recommend taking medications on a regular basis to reduce the risk of a stroke. Research shows that one in four people can recover from a stroke by taking their medications as prescribed.

Lastly, the use of clot-busting medications can increase the chances of positive outcomes by 30% and improve mental well-being.