Non-hemorrhagic stroke
What is a Non-Hemorrhagic Stroke?
A non-hemorrhagic stroke, more commonly referred to as an ischemic stroke, is caused by a clot or blockage of blood vessels within the brain. It occurs when a clot or atherosclerotic plaque in the arteries supplying the brain causes disruption of oxygen and nutrient supply, leading to reduced blood flow and subsequent brain injury. It is the most common type of stroke, accounting for almost 90 percent of all cases.
Risk Factors and Prevention of Non-Hemorrhagic Stroke
Risk factors for non-hemorrhagic stroke include advancing age, lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol use, physical inactivity), hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and atrial fibrillation (an irregular heart rhythm).
Prevention of non-hemorrhagic stroke can be achieved by making lifestyle changes and controlling medical conditions. It is important to maintain healthy diet and take exercise regularly, stop smoking, limit alcohol consumption, control blood pressure, regularly monitor blood sugar and cholesterol, and manage atrial fibrillation.
Signs and Symptoms of Non-Hemorrhagic Stroke
The symptoms of an ischemic stroke can vary widely, depending on the area of the brain affected. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Weakness or numbness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
- Confusion or difficulty speaking or understanding language
- Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Trouble walking
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Severe headache with no known cause
Treatment of Non-Hemorrhagic Stroke
Timely and appropriate treatment is critical for recovery from a non-hemorrhagic stroke. Treatment involves supportive care, providing oxygen and other medications to reduce the risk of further complications.
The mainstay of treatment of ischemic stroke is thrombolysis—the injection of clot-busting drugs into the blocked vessel. However, this treatment should be started within the first few hours of symptom onset. Other treatments may involve the use of anti-clotting medications, carotid endarterectomy, or endovascular thrombectomy.
Conclusion
Non-hemorrhagic stroke, also known as an ischemic stroke, is the result of a clot or blockage of blood vessels within the brain. It can occur due to several risk factors, including advancing age, lifestyle factors, and medical conditions. If recognized and treated quickly, many patients can be successfully treated with supportive care and medications.