This is a medical term we have all heard, but some of us are a bit unsure about. What is it? How is it treated? What is the prognosis? This short article will provide an overview of this serious and important medical condition.

A stroke refers to the death of brain cells and the consequent loss of brain function. It is caused by reduced circulation (blocked or obstructed blood vessels fail to supply the brain with adequate oxygen and so part of the brain dies) or by bleeding into brain tissue (blood vessel bursts open and bleeding occurs, which kills brain cells). The major risk factors for having a stroke are the same as the risk factors for most cardiovascular disease: age, weight, lack of exercise, smoking, uncontrolled high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, etc. Living well and managing these risks can and does reduce the risk of having a stroke.

A stroke can present with varying symptoms depending on the area of the brain affected – the brain controls almost all body functions and movement. The most common symptoms are numbness and or weakness (arm and or leg or face, often one-sided), vision changes, speech difficulties, swallowing difficulties, incontinence, seizures, and headache (but note carefully: not all strokes cause headache). These symptoms should always be taken seriously and emergency medical care (hospital within minutes if possible) is warranted.

The treatment of a stroke, or threatened stroke, is a complex and highly specialised field. Options include advanced medications to dissolve blood clots and improve circulation, intensive care, and in some cases, brain surgery (e.g. to control bleeding where necessary and if possible).

Post-stroke rehabilitation is an important area where much can be done to improve quality of life. This may involve physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, medications, and more. Assisted-living arrangements (alterations at home etc.) and devices (walking sticks, wheelchairs, adapted toilet seats, etc.) are often needed.

KEY MESSAGE: A stroke is a  medical emergency. Rapid specialist care can improve the outcome significantly – lives can be saved and quality lives can be saved. A stroke is very similar to a heart attack in many ways (a stroke has been called a “brain attack”) and the value of urgent medical care is the same for stroke as for heart attack. Anyone with a suspected stroke should get to a specialist-level hospital as soon as possible.

Written by Dr Colin Burns