Ischemic stroke, also known as cerebral stroke, is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. It is characterized by the blockage of an artery in the brain, preventing the proper flow of blood and oxygen. The consequences can be devastating, especially when diagnosis and treatment are not carried out promptly.
In this article, we explain in detail what ischemic stroke is, its causes, symptoms, how to act in a case, and the possibilities for recovery.
What Is an Ischemic Stroke?
An ischemic stroke occurs when a cerebral artery is blocked, usually by a blood clot. This blockage cuts off blood supply to a part of the brain, causing the cells in the affected area to die within minutes.
There are two main types of stroke:
Ischemic stroke: caused by the obstruction of an artery (accounts for about 80% of cases).
Hemorrhagic stroke: occurs when a blood vessel ruptures, causing bleeding in the brain.
This text focuses on the ischemic type, which is the most common.
Main Causes of Ischemic Stroke
Several factors can lead to the formation of a clot that blocks circulation to the brain. The most frequent causes include:
Atherosclerosis: buildup of fatty plaques in the arteries, which hinder or block blood flow.
Atrial fibrillation: a heart arrhythmia that can cause clots to form in the heart and travel to the brain.
High blood pressure (hypertension): the main risk factor for stroke in general.
Diabetes: contributes to blood vessel damage.
High cholesterol
Smoking and physical inactivity
Hormonal contraceptive use, especially in women with other risk factors.
Family history of stroke
Symptoms: How to Recognize a Stroke Quickly
Ischemic stroke can appear suddenly and dramatically. Identifying the signs quickly is essential to saving lives. Key symptoms include:
Sudden paralysis or weakness on one side of the body (face, arm, or leg)
Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
Drooping mouth
Partial or total vision loss in one or both eyes
Dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination
Severe and sudden headache without apparent cause
A simple and effective screening method is the FAST test:
F – Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
A – Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one drift downward?
S – Speech: Is the speech slurred or strange?
T – Time: If any of these signs appear, call emergency services immediately (dial 911 in the U.S., 192 in Brazil).
Time is brain: the faster the treatment, the greater the chances of recovery and the lower the risk of permanent damage.
Diagnosis and Emergency Care
Upon arrival at the hospital, a suspected stroke patient must be immediately evaluated and undergo imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI to confirm the type of stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic).
If ischemic stroke is confirmed and the patient is within the therapeutic window (usually up to 4.5 hours after symptom onset), thrombolytics (clot-dissolving drugs) may be administered. In some cases, mechanical thrombectomy (clot removal via catheter) is also indicated.
Treatment and Rehabilitation
After emergency care, ischemic stroke treatment involves:
Controlling risk factors such as blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol.
Use of anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications, such as aspirin.
Multidisciplinary rehabilitation: physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological support are essential for functional recovery.
Recovery depends on the severity of the stroke and how quickly treatment was received. Many people regain independence, while others may have lasting impairments.
Myths and Facts About Ischemic Stroke
“Stroke only affects elderly people.” Myth. Although the risk increases with age, stroke can occur in young adults, especially with risk factors like hypertension, smoking, or drug use.
“If the person improves after a sudden episode, there is no need to go to the hospital.” Myth. Even if symptoms disappear, it may have been a mini-stroke (TIA – transient ischemic attack), which is an important warning that a more severe stroke could occur.
“Stroke cannot be prevented.”
Myth. Most cases can be prevented through healthy habits and medical control of risk factors.
“Stroke has no treatment.”
Myth. When diagnosed early, ischemic stroke has effective treatment, and rehabilitation can restore much of the patient’s quality of life.
How to Prevent a Stroke
Prevention is the key to reducing stroke cases. The main measures include:
Keeping blood pressure under control
Healthy and balanced diet
Regular physical exercise
Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption
Controlling cholesterol and blood sugar levels
Regular medical checkups
Treating heart diseases, such as arrhythmias
Paying special attention to the use of hormonal contraceptives, especially in smokers and hypertensive women
Conclusion
Ischemic stroke is a medical emergency that can cause significant disabilities or lead to death. Therefore, recognizing the symptoms and seeking immediate care can make all the difference. The good news is that most cases can be prevented with prevention, medical care, and healthy habits.
