By Chris Woolston
CONSUMER HEALTH INTERACTIVE

Note: This article has been localised for an Irish audience.

The grey matter in our brains may get all the credit for our intellectual powers and nerve co-ordination, but it's blood that really keeps us going. If something interrupts blood flow in or to the brain, parts of the brain will quickly die. A stoppage in one of the brain's arteries is called a stroke - a leading cause of death. It's also the number one cause of severe disabilities in adults.

The majority of strokes are caused by blood clots clogging arteries in the brain. But not every blockage leads to a full-blown stroke. If a clot or narrowing of an artery stops blood flow for just a moment, a person will have a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke. A TIA leaves no permanent damage, but it's a signal that a crippling stroke may take place down the road. A less common type of stroke, called a haemorrhagic stroke, occurs when a blood vessel bursts in the brain.

When blood vessels burst or clots clog an artery, the brain cells that control the functions of speech, movement, or memory may die. The specific abilities that may be lost or affected depend on where in the brain the stroke occurs and on the size of the stroke-that is, how many brain cells were damaged. Someone who has a small stroke may experience effects such as weakness of a limb or difficulty in walking. A person who has a bigger stroke may be paralysed on one side or lose the ability to talk. Some people die from very severe strokes, while those who suffer milder strokes may recover fully.

A stroke victim needs medical attention right away. Clot-busting drugs can prevent brain damage in many cases, but only if they're given within three hours of the attack. Doctors can also help prevent strokes by prescribing drugs that prevent new clots from forming.

Because strokes are common and quick treatment is crucial, everyone should know the warning signs. No matter the type of stroke, the symptoms are generally the same (although they will last for just a few minutes during a TIA). Call 999/112 or get to an emergency room immediately if you or a family member has any of these symptoms:

•Weakness, numbness, or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.

•An inability to speak or to understand simple statements.

•A sudden, severe headache.

•Sudden blurred vision or loss of vision in one or both eyes.

•Dizziness or unsteadiness, especially when other symptoms are present.

Strokes usually strike people who are at least 65 years old, and they're particularly common in men. You can't change your age or gender, but many other risk factors are under your control. High blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, a smoking habit, excess alcohol consumption, and obesity all make strokes more likely. You can help protect your brain by taking the following steps:

•If you smoke, stop.

•Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol down.

•Keep saturated fats to a minimum.

•Lose excess weight.

•Get regular medical check-ups.

•Avoid excess alcohol consumption.

•Eat plenty of fresh produce (at least five servings of fruit and vegetables a day).

One Harvard study found that an hour of moderate exercise five times a week lowered stroke risk by 46 percent, compared to people who got little or no exercise. Another study found that fibre from breads and cereals was also linked to a lower risk of stroke.

The mineral potassium is also reputed to help ward off strokes. Bananas, oranges, tomatoes, spinach, and potatoes are especially good sources of potassium. If you have high blood pressure or a family history of stroke, ask your doctor if potassium supplements are recommended in your case.

You may be surprised to hear that your medicine cabinet is already equipped with a powerful anti-stroke drug: aspirin. If you're over 50 or if you have other risk factors for stroke, ask your doctor if you might benefit from taking an aspirin tablet every day. In addition to protecting your brain, a regular dose of aspirin may stave off a heart attack. Aspirin can react with other drugs, however, so be sure to consult with your doctor before taking it regularly.

Finally, you can help safeguard loved ones from strokes by educating them. If you have a friend or relative who is at high risk for a stroke or has already suffered one, make sure the person understands the warning signs of a stroke and the measures that can help prevent future attacks.

-- Chris Woolston is a former staff writer at Hippocrates and a contributing editor at Consumer Health Interactive.

The Volunteer Stroke Scheme has a wealth of information on dealing with strokes. You can contact them on 01 455 7455.

This article has been revised by Vhihealthe for its audience and may contain, among other things, information or medical practices that are unique to Ireland. Neither Consumer Health Interactive nor the original author make any warranty as to the accuracy of the article as revised, and assume no responsibility for modified content.

First published March 22, 2001
Copyright © 2000 Consumer Health Interactive

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