October 29th is celebrated World Stroke Day whose aim is to inform as many people as possible about the symptoms and consequences of a very widespread disorder.
Stroke, 90% of cases could be avoided
It is usually believed that it mainly affects the elderly, but the latest data recorded in Italy disprove this belief. In fact, among the 240 thousand cases diagnosed per year, 30 thousand concern people from aged between 30 and 40 years. Despite the alarming forecasts, the World Stroke Organization states that up to 90% diagnosis could be avoided correcting or eliminating risk factors. There preventiontherefore, always remains the best weapon at our disposal.
What is stroke
Stroke, also called apoplectic stroke, appears as a consequence of a reduction or complete interruption of blood supplies to the brain. The brain tissue therefore, a cause of failure intake of the right amount of oxygenfaces death. There are two types of stroke:
- Ischemic: it is the most frequent and is caused by shrinkage or total obstruction of a cerebral arterial vessel
- Hemorrhagic: much more dangerous than the ischemic one, it is given by the rupture of an artery of the brain. The damage, often irreversible, is due to the pressure exerted by the blood loss.
The causes of stroke
A stroke is almost always triggered by a combination of non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors. On the former, as the term itself suggests, one cannot intervene. For the latter, however, preventive strategies can be implemented.
- Non-modifiable risk factors: advanced age, male sex, belonging to the African, Asian and Caribbean population, familiarity with certain cardiac pathologies and with TIA, or transient ischemic attack
- Modifiable risk factors: diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, overweight, obesity, cigarette smoking, alcohol abuse, drug use.
Symptoms and consequences of stroke
The manifestations of a stroke appear quickly and it is essential to recognize them and not delay in order to intervene as quickly as possible. The subject immediately complains of a strange loss of strength or sensation in a limb. Other symptoms follow and to be precise:
- Aphasia (difficulty understanding the meaning of words)
- Dysarthria (difficulty articulating words correctly)
- Ataxia (lack of coordination)
- Tingling in the face
- Heachache
- Mental confusion
- Double vision
- Nausea
- Vomit.
Only rapid intervention is able to avoid the consequences of a stroke which can also be very serious. These include semi-total or total paralysis of the motor muscles, la memory lossinability to reason, i behavior changesspeech and swallowing problems.
The diagnosis and treatment of stroke
In addition to the medical history and the blood tests which evaluate clotting capacity and blood sugar, the diagnosis of stroke is based on the performance of instrumental tests capable of evaluating the type of disorder and the area of the brain affected. Magnetic resonance imaging, CT scanning and cerebral angiography are therefore very useful.
Scientists at Brigham and Women’s Hospital recently developed a new test that combines blood biomarkers with a clinical score in order to identify with high precision a subject suffering from a stroke.
The therapeutic strategy for stroke varies depending on the type and brain site involved. There pharmacological treatment involves the administration of antithrombotic and anticoagulant molecules. THE’surgery It has a dual purpose: to free blocked blood vessels and to evacuate excess blood in the event of a haemorrhagic stroke.
Preventing stroke at the table: foods to avoid
There is a correlation between frequent and continued consumption of certain foods and the risk of suffering a stroke. Confirmation comes from one studio published on Neurology and led by Dr. William Taylor Kimberly of Massachusetts General Hospital. Scientists, analyzing the medical records of over 30 thousand individuals for 11 years age over 45 yearsthey found that a diet rich in ultra-processed foodsincreases the probability of developing a stroke by 8%.
So prevention starts at the table. In addition to the foods highly processed, rich in additives, preservatives and artificial ingredients, they are particularly dangerous for brain health:
- The refined sugars contained in soft drinks, packaged snacks, sweets and baked goods
- I across the grass found in fried foods, packaged foods, and commercial baked goods
- The processed red meat
- The alcoholic drinks
- The foods high in sale
- I foods containing mercury such as some fish and seafood.
What, instead, should you eat for keep your brain healthy? Green light (but always in moderation) to fresh and dried fruit, vegetables, whole grains, oily fish, dark chocolate, milk and dairy products.
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October 29th: A Day to Celebrate Your Brain!
You know that moment when your phone gives you that dreaded notification about World Stroke Day? Well, if you didn’t know, now you do! It’s a day that aims to shout from the rooftops about the importance of spotting strokes before they strike like a thief in the night.
Stroke: The Sneaky Assassin
Let’s debunk a myth: strokes aren’t just for the ‘experienced’ folks. You might think they’re just doing their best impression of a cautious octogenarian crossing the street—stop, start, stop, beep! But hold on tight! In Italy, a shocking 30,000 cases every year affect those aged between 30 and 40. Yes, you heard that right. You might be more likely to dodge a hangover than a stroke if you’re not careful!
What is a Stroke Anyway?
Simply put, a stroke occurs when the brain decides to throw a tantrum due to a lack of oxygen. Nobody likes to feel ignored—not toddlers, not teenagers, and certainly not your brain!
There are two main types of strokes, and here they are:
- Ischemic Stroke: This is like your artery saying, “I’d rather not!” and blocking the blood flow. You know, rejection at its finest.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: This one’s like a water balloon bursting—except, instead of laughs, it’s just a whole lot of trouble.
What’s Behind This Brain Fumble?
Strokes love to rear their ugly heads from a delightful mix of risk factors—some you can control and some you can’t. It’s like a bad Tinder date that won’t go away!
- Non-Modifiable Risk Factors: You can’t change being a guy or looking at the world through your wrinkles!
- Modifiable Risk Factors: You absolutely can stop smoking that evil stick—no more making deals with the devil!
Recognize the Signs Before It’s Too Late!
When a stroke decides to pop in unannounced, be on the lookout for these symptoms:
- Loss of strength or sensation in a limb (goodbye, gym goals!)
- Aphasia (confusion in communication—like trying to talk to a cat)
- Dysarthria (coming out as your best attempt at speaking while eating soup)
- Ataxia (your body, doing a very poor impression of dancin’)
- And the list of headaches goes on! (Get it?)
Diagnostic Woefulness
How do we even diagnose this villain? Beyond simply asking, “Are you okay?” we have blood tests, MRIs, and a fancy CT scan or two thrown in. Basically, a trip to the doctor isn’t going to be a walk in the park.
Food: Your Brain’s Best Friend or Worst Enemy
Let’s talk about what you shove in your mouth. Because believe it or not, what you eat can play a huge role in keeping your brain intact. Studies show that scarfing down ultra-processed foods could up your chance of a stroke by 8%. That’s like eating a slice of “brain freeze”. Avoid them like that last piece of fruitcake at Christmas!
When it comes to the good stuff? Think whole grains, oily fish, and dark chocolate—yes, I said chocolate. The only time it’s acceptable to “give in to cravings” is to save your brain—talk about a win-win!
In Conclusion: Time to Take Action!
Stroke awareness is not just a passing fad; it’s a vital reminder that your brain is a precious resource—don’t treat it like a forgotten gym membership! Be proactive, know these signs, eat wisely, and remember: prevention is far better than regret!
So, How Will You Celebrate World Stroke Day?
Make a date with yourself, your health, and maybe even a nice plate of salmon. Because if there’s one thing we can agree on, it’s that your brain deserves some epic attention—before it goes on holiday without you!
