Stroke

Stroke

A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked, causing brain damage. It can happen suddenly and affect speech, movement, and memory. Getting treatment quickly is vital to reduce the effects of a stroke and improve recovery. At Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health, we provide complete care for stroke patients, from prevention and early treatment to rehabilitation and support. Our team is here to help you understand stroke risks, symptoms, and treatment options, ensuring you receive the best care possible for you and your loved ones.

What is a Stroke?

A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, cutting off oxygen and nutrients to brain cells. There are two main types of strokes: an ischemic stroke, where a blood vessel is blocked, and a hemorrhagic stroke, where a blood vessel bursts and bleeds into the brain.

It’s important to understand that strokes can vary greatly in severity and effects, depending on where and how much of the brain is affected. Some people experience a “mini-stroke,” known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which causes temporary symptoms and can be a warning sign of a more serious stroke in the future.

Types of Strokes

Strokes can be categorized into three main types, each with different causes and effects:

Ischemic Stroke

This is the most common type, making up about 87% of all strokes. It happens when a blood clot blocks a vessel that supplies blood to the brain. There are two forms of ischemic stroke:

• Thrombotic Stroke: A blood clot forms in an artery that supplies blood to the brain.
• Embolic Stroke: A blood clot or other debris forms elsewhere in the body and travels through the bloodstream to block a smaller artery in the brain.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

While less common, hemorrhagic strokes tend to be more severe. They occur when a blood vessel in the brain bursts or leaks. There are two main types of hemorrhagic strokes:

• Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Bleeding directly into the brain tissue.
• Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Bleeding in the space between the brain and the protective tissues that cover it.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

Often called a “mini-stroke,” a TIA produces symptoms similar to a stroke but usually lasts only a few minutes and doesn’t cause permanent damage. While less serious, a TIA is an important warning sign that a full stroke may happen if not addressed.

Recognizing Stroke Symptoms

Time matters with stroke. Quick recognition and medical help improve recovery chances.

Remember BE FAST:

• Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
• Eyes: Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
• Face: One side of the face droops when the person smiles.
• Arms: One arm drifts downward when both arms are raised.
• Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking.
• Time: If you observe any of these signs, it’s time to call emergency services immediately.

Other symptoms may include:

• Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
• Sudden confusion or trouble understanding speech.
• Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can occur suddenly and may not always occur together. Even if symptoms seem to improve, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. When it comes to stroke, every minute counts.

Risk Factors for Stroke

Some stroke risks you can’t change, while others you can control.

Unchangeable risks:

• Age: The risk of stroke increases with age, doubling for each decade after age 55.
• Gender: Men have a higher risk of stroke overall, but women are more likely to die from stroke.
• Race and ethnicity: African Americans have a higher risk of stroke than other racial groups.
• Family history: If a close relative has had a stroke, your risk may be higher.

Changeable risks:

• High blood pressure: This is the leading cause of stroke and the most important controllable risk factor.
• Smoking: Tobacco use increases the risk of stroke by damaging blood vessels and increasing clot formation.
• Diabetes: Having diabetes increases your risk of stroke, especially if it’s poorly controlled.
• High cholesterol: Excess cholesterol can build up in your arteries, leading to atherosclerosis.
• Physical inactivity and obesity: A sedentary lifestyle and being overweight increase your risk of stroke.
• Heart disease: Conditions like atrial fibrillation can lead to blood clots that may cause a stroke.
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Heavy drinking can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of stroke.

Preventing Stroke

Preventing a stroke is always better than treating one, and by making a few key lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk. Start by monitoring and controlling your blood pressure, as high blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke. Quitting smoking and managing existing conditions like diabetes are also crucial steps in prevention.

Maintaining a healthy weight is important, and you can achieve this by eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Regular exercise is essential, with at least 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.

If you drink alcohol, it’s best to do so in moderation—up to one drink per day for women and two for men. Additionally, managing heart disease with your doctor’s guidance and finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as through meditation or therapy, can further lower your risk. By taking these steps, you’re making a commitment to your long-term heart and brain health.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Stroke

The diagnostic process begins with a thorough physical exam, followed by brain imaging such as CT or MRI scans to assess the location and severity of the stroke. Blood tests are performed to check for clotting issues or other potential factors, and heart tests may be conducted to identify underlying cardiac conditions.

Treatment varies depending on the type of stroke. For ischemic strokes, which are the most common, doctors may administer clot-busting medications or perform a mechanical thrombectomy to remove large clots, ideally within hours of symptom onset. Hemorrhagic strokes, on the other hand, often require blood pressure management, reversal of blood thinners, and sometimes surgery to repair blood vessel damage.

Recovery begins with rehabilitation and plays a key role in long-term recovery. This may include physical therapy to improve movement, occupational therapy to assist with daily activities, and speech therapy for those experiencing communication difficulties. A well-rounded treatment plan offers the best chance for a successful recovery.

See Us for Stroke Care

If you or a loved one is at risk for stroke or experiencing symptoms, early detection and treatment are crucial. At Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health, specialists are here to provide the expert care you need.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the next step toward better heart health. Your well-being is our priority.

Proudly Serving: Brandon, Carrollwood, Land O’ Lakes, North Tampa, South Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sun City Center, Tampa, Town ‘N’ Country, Wesley Chapel, West Tampa, and Zephyrhills.