Some precautions are important to help avoid stroke

A stroke occurs when there is an interruption or reduction in blood flow to the brain, depriving cells of oxygen and essential nutrients carried by the blood. According to the World Stroke Organization, one in four people over the age of 35 will suffer a stroke at some point in their lives, and 90% of cases could be prevented with basic care.

Stroke can be classified into:

• Ischemic: occurs when there is a blockage caused by thrombosis or embolism.
• Hemorrhagic: occurs when a blood vessel ruptures, causing bleeding in the brain.

Stroke has symptoms such as:

• Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body;
• Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding;
• Blurred vision or loss of vision in one or both eyes;
• Intense and unexpected headache, with no apparent cause;
• Sudden difficulty walking, dizziness, or loss of balance and coordination.

Stroke may present some risk factors, such as:

• Arterial hypertension;
• Diabetes;
• High cholesterol;
• Smoking;
• Obesity.

Stroke treatment depends on the type and severity of the case, as well as the speed of medical care. In cases of ischemic stroke, where blood vessels are blocked, the goal is to restore blood flow to the brain. This can be done through thrombolytic medications, which dissolve the clot, or through mechanical thrombectomy procedures, in which the clot is removed by catheterization. Hemorrhagic stroke, caused by ruptured vessels, may require surgical interventions to control bleeding and reduce intracranial pressure.

According to cardiologist Dr. Roberto Yano, recovery from a stroke can be slow and, in some cases, the patient may experience sequelae. “Recovery from a stroke varies in each case, but it can take time and require some types of therapy, such as physiotherapy and speech therapy, and follow-up with a cardiologist.”

He also points out that some patients may face permanent limitations. “Sequelae may occur, such as motor or communication difficulties”, he warns.

According to Dr. Roberto Yano, stroke can be prevented by adopting healthy habits in everyday life. “The best way to prevent stroke is to include some precautions in your daily life as early as possible, that is, having a balanced diet with less salt and fat, helping to maintain blood pressure and cholesterol at healthy levels, practicing exercise regularly, avoid alcohol and stop smoking”, he explains.

The expert also warns of the importance of monitoring conditions that increase the risk of stroke. “It is also important to monitor health problems, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, which can increase the risk of stroke; and if you have a family history of heart disease, have annual check-ups”, he warns.