Cerebral ischemia or ischemic stroke occurs when there is a decrease or absence of blood flow to the brain, thus decreasing the amount of oxygen that reaches the organ and characterizing cerebral hypoxia. Cerebral hypoxia can cause serious sequelae or even death if the person is not identified and treated as soon as the first symptoms appear, such as drowsiness, paralysis of the arms and legs and changes in speech and vision.
Cerebral ischemia can occur at any time, during physical activity or even during sleep, and is more common in people with diabetes, atherosclerosis and sickle cell anemia. Diagnosis can be made based on imaging tests, such as MRIs and CT scans.
There are 2 types of cerebral ischemia, these are
Symptoms of cerebral ischemia can last from a few seconds to longer periods and may include:
Symptoms of cerebral ischemia should be identified as soon as possible for initiation of treatment; otherwise, permanent brain damage can occur. In transient cerebral ischemia, symptoms are transient and last less than 24 hours, but should also be treated clinically.
Transient cerebral ischemia, also known as AIT or mini stroke, occurs when there is a decrease in blood flow to the brain for a short period of time, with sudden onset symptoms and usually goes away within about 24 hours, and requires immediate attention as this may be the beginning of more severe cerebral ischemia.
Transitional ischemia should be treated according to medical guidelines and is usually done with the treatment of comorities, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and changes in eating and lifestyle habits, such as exercise and decreased fat and alcohol intake. in addition to avoiding smoking. Learn how to identify and treat a mini stroke.
Cerebral ischemia can leave sequelae, such as
The aftermath of cerebral ischemia varies considerably from person to person and depends on the location of ischemia and the time it takes to start treatment, which often requires the support of a physical therapist, speech therapist, or occupational therapist to improve the quality of care. prevent the aftermath from being permanent.
The causes of cerebral ischemia are closely related to a person’s lifestyle. For example, people with atherosclerosis, diabetes, and high blood pressure, which are diseases related to eating habits, have an increased risk of developing cerebral ischemia.
In addition, people with sickle cell anemia are also more likely to experience a decrease in brain oxygenation, as the altered form of red blood cells does not allow adequate oxygen transport.
Bleeding problems, such as platelet stacking and bleeding disorders, also contribute to cerebral ischemia because there is an increased risk of blockage of a brain vessel.
Treatment of cerebral ischemia is performed based on the size of the clot and possible consequences for the person, and the use of anticoagulant drugs, such as Alteplase, or surgery may be indicated. Treatment should be done in the hospital to be able to control blood pressure and intracranial pressure, thus avoiding possible complications.
In addition to using medications, it is important to seek the help of a physical therapist, speech therapist or occupational therapist to improve a person’s quality of life and prevent permanent harm. See how stroke physiotherapy is performed.
After hospital discharge, good habits should be maintained so that the risk of a new cerebral ischemia condition is minimal, i.e. paying attention to food, avoiding fatty and salty foods, performing physical activities, avoiding drinking and quitting smoking. There are home remedies that can prevent strokes because they have properties that prevent blood from thickening too much and clots.