An ischemic stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain, depriving the brain of oxygen and nutrients. Without immediate treatment, an ischemic stroke can cause brain damage and even be deadly.

Understanding the risks of ischemic stroke is essential to prevent and treat this serious condition. This visual guide explores the causes, symptoms, and treatments of ischemic stroke and how to reduce your risk of having a stroke.

What is Ischemic Stroke?

An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) or a bit of fatty plaque (embolus) blocks an artery in the brain, interrupting blood flow to brain cells. This lack of oxygen and nutrients can cause brain cells to die, leading to brain damage.

Ischemic strokes are the most common types of strokes, accounting for over 80 percent of all strokes.

Causes of Ischemic Stroke

Ischemic stroke can have several underlying causes, including:.

High Blood Pressure

Uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the brain, making it more likely for blood clots to form and cause a stroke.

Heart Disease

Irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation) and other heart diseases can cause blood clots to form in the heart and travel to the brain, leading to a stroke.

Diabetes

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque in the arteries that can cause a stroke.

Smoking

Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of blood clots, making it a significant risk factor for stroke.

High Cholesterol

High levels of cholesterol in the blood can cause the buildup of plaque in the arteries and increase the risk of a stroke.

Obesity

Obesity increases the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, all of which can cause a stroke.

Family History of Stroke

If your parents or siblings have had a stroke, you are more likely to have a stroke yourself, so it’s essential to take steps to reduce your risk.

Symptoms of Ischemic Stroke

The symptoms of an ischemic stroke can vary depending on which part of the brain is affected, but they can include:.

Weakness or Numbness

You may experience weakness or numbness on one side of your body, including your arm, leg, or face.

Difficulty Speaking

You may have trouble speaking or understanding others.

Confusion and Disorientation

You may feel confused or disoriented, have trouble with your memory, or have difficulty focusing.

Vision Changes

You may experience blurred or darkened vision or a loss of vision in one eye.

Dizziness and Loss of Coordination

You may feel dizzy or lose your balance, making it difficult to walk or move around.

Severe Headache

You may experience a sudden and severe headache, often described as the worst headache of your life.

Treatment for Ischemic Stroke

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of an ischemic stroke, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention. Time is critical in treating stroke, and prompt treatment can save lives and reduce the risk of disability.

Treatment for ischemic stroke may include:.

Thrombolytic Therapy

Thrombolytic therapy involves the administration of medication to dissolve the blood clot and restore blood flow to the brain.

Mechanical Thrombectomy

Mechanical thrombectomy involves the removal of the blood clot through a catheter that is inserted into the artery in the groin and threaded up to the blocked vessel in the brain.

Carotid Endarterectomy

Carotid endarterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of plaque from the carotid artery in the neck, reducing the risk of a stroke.

Angioplasty and Stenting

Angioplasty and stenting involves using a balloon catheter to open a blocked artery and placing a stent to keep the artery open.

Prevention of Ischemic Stroke

Preventing an ischemic stroke involves addressing risk factors and making healthy lifestyle changes that can reduce the risk of stroke. Here are some tips for preventing ischemic stroke:.

Monitor Blood Pressure

Have your blood pressure checked regularly and take steps to control high blood pressure, such as taking medication, exercising regularly, and reducing salt intake.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Follow a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat and high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.

Exercise Regularly

Engage in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, to improve fitness and reduce the risk of stroke.

Quit Smoking

Quit smoking or avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, which can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of stroke.

Drink Alcohol in Moderation

Avoid excessive alcohol intake, which can increase blood pressure and affect the function of the heart and liver, increasing the risk of stroke.

Manage Diabetes and Cholesterol

If you have diabetes or high cholesterol, work with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions and reduce your risk of stroke.

Know the Signs of Stroke

Learn to recognize the signs of stroke and seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms.

Final Thoughts

Ischemic stroke is a serious medical condition that can cause brain damage and even be deadly if left untreated.

Understanding the risks of ischemic stroke, recognizing the symptoms, and taking steps to prevent stroke are essential for maintaining good health and reducing the risk of stroke. By making healthy lifestyle choices and working with your healthcare provider to manage risk factors, you can protect your brain and reduce the risk of stroke.