Stroke
|
| Definition |
A stroke (cerebrovascular accident
[CVA]) is the interruption of blood flow to the brain causing an
individual to become dizzy, pass out (lose consciousness) or develop
paralysis of part of their body.
|
| Causes |
There are many causes of stroke.
Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) to the brain may be
associated with a reduction or blockage of blood flow to certain
areas of the brain and may cause a stroke. Bleeding (hemorrhage)
into the brain is also an important cause of stroke. Blockage by
solid materials (embolism) of the brain's arteries can cause stroke.
These materials are often blood clots from the heart or pieces of
cholesterol-material from the walls of degenerating arteries. Stroke
can also occur in the setting of infection of the brain or its
coverings (meninges). Head trauma can also be associated with
stroke. Sometimes inflammation of the brain's blood vessels, a
condition called vasculitis, is also a cause of stroke.
|
| Treatment |
Treatment should begin as quickly
as possible to avoid brain damage. Numerous tests are often
necessary to determine the precise cause of the stroke and to guide
treatment. CT scans or MRI scans are often necessary to determine
the part(s) of the brain involved. Patients who have sustained a
stroke due to a blood clot may be treated with medications that
prevent further clot formation or actually dissolve existing clots.
|
| Comments |
| A stroke implies loss of function
or death to certain areas of the brain. This is in contrast to a
transient ischemic attack in which death of brain tissue does not
occur. Sometimes, people fully recover from a stroke. In more
serious situations, surgery may be needed. In the most severe cases,
death may occur. |
Related Links |
National Library of Medicine
The National Library of Medicine through the National Institutes of
Health (NIH) provides excellent information for the consumer
regarding stroke prevention and treatment.
National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke
The National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke, a
division of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), provides the
consumer resources to the treatment of the stroke patient.
American Stroke Association
The American Stroke Association has developed an extensive site for
the consumer that has excellent information regarding stroke.
American Stroke Association
The American Stroke Association has developed an extensive site for
the consumer that has excellent information regarding the treatment
of stroke. |
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