Stroke – time is brain
Stroke is a sudden and life-threatening condition where the brain’s circulation is disturbed. Every minute at this point is crucial — the longer the brain tissue remains without blood supply and oxygen, the more brain damage occurs, and the harder the recovery is.
Lack of timely help can lead to severe neurological impairment.
What is stroke?
Stroke occurs when:
- a blood vessel in the brain is obstructed (ischaemic stroke) or
- a blood vessel in the brain is bursting and bleeding occurs in the brain (haemorrhagic stroke).
In both cases, brain cells suffer from oxygen shortages and their damage develops suddenly.
How do I recognize a stroke?
You can recognize a stroke after a sudden change:
- unilateral slip of the face (lip corner, cheek or eyelid);
- unilateral weakness or numbness in the arm and/or leg;
- difficulty in speaking or unintelligible speech;
- sudden changes in vision, balance or consciousness;
- strong, unusual headaches that progress over time.\
If you notice any of these symptoms, call 113 immediately!
What are stroke risk factors?
- High blood pressure
- Heart rhythm disorders (e.g. arrhythmia)
- Diabetes mellitus, cholesterol increased
- Smoking and a low-moving lifestyle
- Alcohol abuse
- Age and genetic predisposition
How is stroke diagnosed and treated?
Imaging tests (computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging are performed during acute stroke to determine the type of stroke and decide on treatment. If circulatory disorders have been diagnosed within a maximum of 3 hours and their onset is accurately known, specific stroke treatment may be performed:
- thrombolysis (a medicine for reconstitution of the clot) – in the first hours after the onset of symptoms;
- thrombectomy (mechanical removal of the clot) in certain cases;
- symptomatic treatment and long-term rehabilitation therapy.
Life after a stroke
Stroke changes everyday life, but timely rehabilitation can significantly improve body function and quality of life.
At the NeiroMed ASTRA clinic, we help:
- assess the effects of stroke and the risks to recurrent stroke;
- adapt treatment and medication;
- we offer neurological monitoring and counselling to the patient’s loved ones.
Stroke isn’t just a disease – it’s a signal that time to look after yourself. The sooner a stroke is diagnosed, the more likely it is to help and save the brain.
