Stroke (Brain Attack)

Stroke (Brain Attack)

Stroke is the third leading cause of death and the leading cause of adult disability. A stroke is an interruption of the blood supply to any part of the brain. Neurologist in Rammurthy Nagar It is also referred to as a brain attack. If blood flow was stopped for longer than a few seconds and the brain cannot get blood and oxygen, brain cells can die, and the abilities controlled by that area of the brain are lost. Controllable Risk Factors:
  • High Blood Pressure: A blood pressure reading of 140/90 or above increases stroke risk 4-6 times.
  • High Cholesterol: High levels of cholesterol in the bloodstream can clog arteries and cause a stroke or heart attack.
  • Diabetes: Diabetes increases stroke risk 2-4 times.
  • Atrial Fibrillation (AF): irregular heartbeats. Neurologist in RT Nagar  AF increases stroke risk up to 6 times.
  • Tobacco Use/Smoking: Smoking doubles the risk of stroke.
  • Alcohol Use: Drinking more than 2 drinks per day may increase stroke risk by 50%.
  • Physical Inactivity or Obesity: Excess weight puts a strain on the entire circulatory system. It also makes people more likely to have high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes — all of which can increase your risk for stroke.

 Uncontrollable Risk Factors:

  • Age. Your risk of stroke increases with age. After the age of 55, your stroke risk doubles for every decade.
  • Gender. Stroke is more common in men than women. But more women than men die from stroke.
  • Race. If you are African American, your risk is twice the rate for whites. If you are Hispanic or Asian/Pacific Islander, your stroke risk is also higher than Caucasians.
  • Family History. If someone in your family has had a stroke, you have a higher risk of stroke yourself.
  • Previous Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack. If you have already had a stroke or a transient ischemic attack (ministroke), your have a 25-40% chance of having another stroke in the next 5 year.