When we think about the possibility of having a stroke , fear invades us, but do you really know what it is and how it manifests? Don’t get paralyzed, in Salud180 we tell you what a stroke is, its warning signs and how to act, that it doesn’t take you off guard!

According to Mayo Clinic specialists , a stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is reduced , which prevents brain tissue from receiving oxygen and nutrients, triggering the death of neurons.

The main warning signs are:

 – Numbness of the face, legs or arms

– Blurred vision

– Difficulty talking and walking

– Headache

Risk factor’s

The main risk factors for a stroke are overweight, smoking, high cholesterol levels, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, sedentary lifestyle , among others.

Types of stroke

Ischemic

The ischemic stroke is the most common and occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain.

Hemorrhagic

The stroke bleeding occurs when a blood vessel ruptures and bleeds into the brain.

Diagnosis

A brain attack is a medical emergency and as such should be addressed immediately . The doctor will perform a physical assessment, in addition to performing a CT scan or MRI , as well as an electrocardiogram or echocardiography to see if the stroke was the product of a heart problem.

Treatment

The treatment for stroke depends on the case, but may consist of taking medication for immediate action, rehabilitation or surgery.

At the first warning signs of a stroke it is vital to call 911 or be taken to medical emergencies immediately.