A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or significantly reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This interruption can lead to the rapid death of brain cells, causing various neurological impairments. There are two main types of strokes: ischemic stroke, caused by a blockage in an artery due to a blood clot, and hemorrhagic stroke, caused by a rupture of a blood vessel leading to bleeding in or around the brain. Symptoms of a stroke include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side of the body), confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech, difficulty seeing in one or both eyes, difficulty walking, dizziness, loss of balance, and severe headache with no known cause. Prompt medical treatment is crucial, as early intervention can significantly improve the outcome and reduce the risk of long-term disability. Treatments may involve clot-dissolving medications, surgical interventions, and rehabilitation therapies. Preventative measures include managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Researchers have discovered a molecule, LK-2, that shows promise in treating stroke by blocking harmful glutamate activity without affecting essential brain functions. The discovery offers…
High xylitol levels may increase cardiovascular risks by promoting clotting, according to Cleveland Clinic research. Xylitol is a common zero-calorie sweetener found in sugar-free candy and…
Eating more ultra-processed foods may elevate the risk of cognitive issues and stroke, with the impact being particularly significant among black individuals. People who eat…
Brief anger can temporarily impair blood vessel function, potentially heightening heart disease and stroke risks, finds new study in the Journal of the American Heart…
Researchers find smoking marijuana poses similar cardiac risks to tobacco, with increased legalization leading to potential heart health issues. Daily users face higher risks of…
NIH-funded observational study shows risk grows sharply with more frequent use. Frequent cannabis smoking may significantly increase a person’s risk for heart attack and stroke,…
More frequent use of cannabis was associated with higher odds of adverse cardiovascular outcomes, finds a new study in the Journal of the American Heart…
Researchers have successfully revived brain function in mice affected by stroke through the use of small molecules, which could potentially be developed into a stroke…
The discovery improves our understanding of cerebral microbleeds and may offer new therapeutic targets. A groundbreaking study conducted by the University of California, Irvine has…
As more people across the U.S. use marijuana for medical and recreational reasons, two new studies suggest its regular intake may damage heart and brain…
SARS-CoV-2 infected coronary arteries and increased inflammation in atherosclerotic plaques. The findings suggest how COVID-19 could increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. COVID-19…
NIH-funded research sheds light on link between COVID-19 infection and increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, can directly…
A meta-analysis in Neurology indicates that short-term exposure to air pollution heightens stroke risk. Short-term exposure to air pollution may be linked to an increased…
Research indicates that Mexican Americans experience less favorable outcomes post-stroke compared to their non-Hispanic white American counterparts. A recent study delves into the potential correlation…
New research reveals that individuals below the age of 50 face an even higher level of risk. Individuals exhibiting insomnia-related signs like difficulties in falling…
The SHOPS-AF study used supermarket carts fitted with ECG sensors to detect atrial fibrillation among shoppers in a novel public health initiative. While the method…
Researchers from Osaka University identify a protein that reduces inflammation, stimulates neural growth, and improves sensory and motor functions following ischemic stroke in mice. Scientists…
Stroke incidence has risen 50% since 2005, with diet and lifestyle playing key roles. Adopting healthier habits can prevent 80% of strokes, emphasizing the importance…