Ischemic strokes are the most common type of stroke. They can happen to people of all ages, including children, though more commonly seen in older, or elderly people. Ischemic strokes can cause paralysis of parts of the body, and worse, even death. Strokes need to be treated immediately in order to get the most out of the treatment option that the doctor prescribes. And depending on how quickly treatment can begin, will determine how well the patient will respond to the treatment.
What is an Ischemic Stroke?
An Ischemic stroke is essentially the blockage of an artery or blood vessel that leads to the brain. The blockage blocks the blood flow to the brain and the result of this is that the brain essentially suffocates. The brain can no longer receive blood to that particular area, which also carries the much needed oxygen. When this happens, that area, or part of the brain can die and no longer function properly. When areas of the brain do not function properly, certain skills; such as cognitive skills and motor skills are lost.
Causes of an Ischemic Stroke?
There are several causes of an ischemic stroke. The most common is the blockage of an artery that carries blood to the brain. Another cause is when an artery to the heart is blocked. When there is a blood clot in an artery, the artery is no longer able to carry blood to the brain. When arteries get blocked with plaque, the blood cannot flow properly and a clot is formed. If a blood clot becomes dislodged and begins to travel and reaches the brain, this is called an embolism. need to be treated immediately to save as much of the brain as possible.
Who is at Risk For an Ischemic Stroke?
Although a stroke can happen to anyone, there are certain factors and certain lifestyles that play a large role in whether a person is at greater risk for a stroke or not. Some of the most common stroke-factors are being overweight, lack of exercise, smoking, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Certain medications can increase a person's risk for a stroke as well, and people who tend to live high-stressed lifestyles can also be at greater risk. Regular visits to your doctor is one of the best preventions for a stroke. Making sure to regularly check your cholesterol levels is another prevention.
Treatments for an Ischemic Stroke
Treatments for Ischemic strokes include: Thrombolytic therapy which is a medication that works to dissolve clots that have formed within the arteries of the brain. Dipyridamole is another treatment that is commonly given to patients after a stroke. This medication works to reduce platelet clumping and another clot forming. Plavix is another medication given to prevent further clots from forming. Aspirin is also a common form of treatment and when it is given within forty-eight hours of a stroke can help reduce and break-up clots. Sometimes the clot has to surgically be removed.
Side Effects of Treatments
Most all medications and treatments come with possible side effects. Medication treatments for stroke patients are no different and patients should, and need to be monitored when receiving stroke therapy. Some of the medications can have severe consequences like more clots forming or present clots dislodging. Other side effects can be more simple; such as nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal disturbances and headaches. Most of the simpler side effects resolve on their own over time, while some require the medication to be stopped.
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