FAQs

A stroke or a  “brain attack,” occurs when ;

1. The blood supply to a portion of the brain is disrupted ( reduced or stopped) leading to starvation of the affected brain part (also called ischemia) , and ultimately brain death (infarction).
2. There is rapture of a blood vessel inside the brain , thus bleeding into the brain causing brain damage

Generally speaking , there are two types of stroke ;

1. Ischemic stroke ; One where the blood supply to the brain is disrupted (stopped or reduced ) leading to brain damage (ischemia) , 80% of the strokes are ischemic in nature
2. Hemorrhagic stroke ;  Here there is bleeding into the brain , still causing brain damage.

1. Major stroke ; this only recovers with treatment , if a major stroke is not timely treated , permanent disability or death ensues.
2. Transient Ischemic Attack ( TIA) ; This can be seen as a ‘ warning stroke ‘ , because the associated stroke symptoms recover with in 24 hours . 

Transient Ischemic Attack ;

Transient - Lasting only a short time

Ischemic - Means reduced blood flow to the brain causing brain starvation ( ischemia)

Attack - The brain ischemia causes the symptoms ( attack)

If untreated , the attacks may re-occur , followed by a major stroke.

The main symptoms of stroke can be remembered with the acronym BE FAST :
Balance : stroke patients may have trouble maintaining balance, sudden dizziness or unresponsiveness also known as a coma.
Eyes : sudden partial or complete inability to see is likely due to a stroke
Face – the face may have dropped on 1 side. The face appears asymmetrical or deformed.
Arms – the person with a suspected stroke may be unable to lift both arms (and legs) , because of weakness in one arm (and leg).
Speech – their speech may be slurred or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake; they may also have problems understanding what you’re saying.
Time – It’s time to dial +256763406330 immediately if you see any of these signs or symptoms. Seek medical attention even when symptoms resolve at home .

1. Blood Clots ; Most stroke patients  can not move and may be bed ridden , this increases the risk of getting blood clots.
2. Frequent Infections.
3. Bed sores.
4. Challenges with eating or swallowing .
5. Breathing difficulties.

1.  Yes , stroke requires emergency treatment , to minimise brain damage.

   Delaying treatment can cause permanent brain damage leading to disability , or death.