Caring For A Person With Epilepsy: 10 Ways
Caring For A Person With Epilepsy: 10 Ways
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by seizures. The nerve cell activity in the brain is disturbed, thus causing the frequent outbursts of electrical energy. Caring for someone with epilepsy can be difficult as one does not know when or where the seizures occur. Epilepsy depends from person to person. While some people can live on their own and manage their seizures by themselves, others on the other hand may need a lot of care and attention.
Epilepsy seizures can be different for different people. There are several reasons why a seizure can be triggered. Sometimes bleeding or haemorrhage in the brain can lead to seizures. The two major types of seizures are-
- Focal onset seizures- These seizures at first start in the brain and later spread to other parts of the body. A person may experience sudden movement or twitching which is out of their control. They might zone out or not remember anything after the seizure.
- Generalized seizures -These seizures affect multiple parts of the brain at the same time. People are barely aware of what’s happening around them. These can be dangerous and frightening to watch.
Such sudden outbursts can make living with someone with epilepsy difficult.
How to support someone with epilepsy?
The sudden seizures and the effect it has on the person, makes caring for them an arduous task. One needs to be calm and ready when it comes to looking after someone with this disorder. Here are a few tips that will come in handy while caring for someone with epilepsy.
Always be prepared
The seizures are irregular and unpredictable, hence, it’s important that the caretaker is ready for anything that they might have to face in the future. The best way to be prepared is to know what the other person is going through. You can do this by reading more about epilepsy and talking to the doctors and gaining more information about what type of seizure the person has and what to do when someone has a seizure.
First Aid
Since the seizures are so unpredictable, it’s safer to keep a first aid box handy as the patient may hurt themselves. The first thing to do is to ease the person out of the epileptic seizure. Keep them away from other people and let them calm down. In case of any injuries, cover them up. Remove all the obstacles in front of them to avoid clashes. Practice breathing with them. If things get worse, provide them with the required medications or call for help.
Observe and take notes
As a caregiver, one of the best ways to support someone is observing their seizures. Doctors can’t be with the patient the whole day, however, as someone who is usually around the patient, you can observe them and their seizures and take notes of them. You can note down how long the seizure lasts, when and how it takes places, what triggers the seizures, etc. Maintaining a record of all these points will help you and the patient in future treatment.
Medications
It is vital that you provide the person suffering their medications on time. Ensure what dosage they’re having and at what time. It is necessary that the person suffering has their medicines on time for their effective working. Medications will help the person recover and have a better life.
Be supportive and encouraging
As a caregiver one of the best ways you can help a person with epilepsy, is by encouraging them. A few words of daily encouragement can help them overcome the disorder and get better. The frequent seizures have a great impact on the person and can affect them severely. Hence, it becomes necessary that you take good care of them and help them relieve their anxiety and frustration. Help them focus on the positive aspects of life and engage in activities that will keep them busy and shift their attention.
Ensure they get enough rest
Seizures can be exhausting, both mentally and physically. Therefore, sleep is necessary. Ensure that the person is getting enough and sound sleep. Sleep deprivation is one of the triggers of seizures. Hence a sound and peaceful sleep is a must.
Make them communicate
Being dependent on someone and having frequent seizures can deeply affect the mental state of a person. Thus, talking to them and having a conversation can comfort the person, and help in managing epilepsy.
Take care of their diet
When a person has a seizure they’re barely aware of what happens around them. They may tend to skip their meals or ignore their diet. Some may even resort to alcohol in order to overcome this disorder. However, alcohol will only cause further damage to the patient’s body and health.
Keep emergency contact ready
Safety is of most importance. Therefore, in case of any emergency, such as times when the person has a seizure longer than usual, or anything unusual you notice, keep the emergency contact nearby. This way you can immediately call for help without wasting much time. Consult the best neurologist in Delhi for better treatment and care of a person with epilepsy.
Teach them relaxing techniques
In order to get someone to overcome their seizure, you should help them relieve their stress and anxiety. Teaching them relaxing techniques will help them soothe themselves and calm them down. Stress is one of the reasons for seizures. By learning relaxing techniques such as meditation or yoga, you can ease out the stress.
Caring for someone with this disorder can be overwhelming and exhausting. However, it is important to note that this is just as hard for them as it is for you. With proper love, care and medical attention, one can take control of their life.
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Development Of Nervous System In A Child :Its Importance
Development Of Nervous System In A Child :Its Importance
A newborn child is a universe in itself. The initial years are of most importance and require great care and attention. There are several changes taking place in the body as the growth takes place at an exponential rate. Most of the development in a child takes place in the first five years. Similarly, the development of the nervous system too, takes place in the initial years, which later helps the child to learn, speak, think and carry out several activities.
The spinal cord, the brain and the nerves make up the nervous system. There are two types of nervous system, the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. A child goes through four stages of nervous system development. At birth, the bones in the skull of the newly born baby are soft and flexible. Later, as the baby grows, the bones become strong and hard. The development of the central nervous system which comprises the brain and the spinal cord, starts right when the child is in the womb.
The development of the brain in childhood depends on various factors such as the child’s environment, relations and experiences. At birth itself, the brain has approximately 100 billion to 1 trillion neurons. The well development of the brain depends upon the proper nutrition and brain building activities.
The 6 stages of Development Of Nervous System are -
As mentioned earlier, the development of the nervous system begins in the womb itself. There are millions of nerves present all over the body which help in carrying out several functions of the body. The neurons are responsible for major functions such as learning and memorizing, and thus their development continues for lifetime. The formation of neurons in children is as follows :
Stage 1- Neurogenesis
This is the first step in the formation of neurons in the body. The cells undergo mitosis, in order to produce neuroblasts, or stem cells which ultimately can be differentiated into neurons.
Stage 2- Cell Migration
At this stage, things start getting a bit complex. Here, the cells start moving to great distances in order to form distinct nerve cell populations. For example- layers of cerebral cortex, nuclei in the central nervous system.
Stage 3- Cell Differentiation
In the process of cell differentiation, the cells form into distinctive types of neurons or glial cells.
Stage 4- Synaptogenesis
As the name suggests, synaptogenesis is the establishment of synaptic connections as axons and neurons grow. The synapses, axons and the dendrites all help in communication. The formation of synaptic connection starts right from the second trimester and continues throughout childhood and adult life.
Stage 5 - Neuronal Cell Death
This is the selective death of nerve cells.
Stage 6- Synapse Rearrangement
In this stage, some synapses are lost whereas, on the other hand, other synapses are developed in order to refine synaptic connections.
Food and Nutrition for the Development Of Nervous System
Food is the fuel for the human body. It is quintessential that a growing child gets the right nutrition supplement in order to ensure their robust growth. Some of the food items that serve as good nourishments are - eggs, greek yogurt, green leafy vegetables, fish, nuts and seeds such as peanuts and sunflower seeds, oatmeal, fruits such as apples, bananas and plums. All of these foodstuffs will aid in enhancing memory and improving cognitive skills.
Children are prone to harm or nerve damage. While it’s not that common for a nerve damage there’s always a possibility. Given below is the list of best food for nerve repair.
- Food rich in magnesium and potassium help in curbing the nerve pain. Leafy vegetables, pumpkin seeds, fresh fruits, almonds, avocado, tofu, salmon, etc. are rich in magnesium and potassium.
- Foods high in Omega 3 such as sardines, walnuts, salmon, etc.
- Vitamins such as b12, b6, b2.
- Anti inflammatory foodstuffs such as ginger can heal the nerve damage pain
- Turmeric, a spice easily found in every household has several medicinal properties.
The importance of Development Of Nervous System
The nervous system is the engine of the human body. It controls every cell, tissues and organ system in the body. Hence, it’s crucial that no harm is caused to the nervous system. If the nervous system is harmed, there can be grave repercussions. Every part of the nervous system carries out major functions in the body. The spine, the skull and the vertebrae, thus exist in order to protect these fragile systems.
A child is just a delicate being as the nervous system. Thus, one needs to take utmost care while bringing them up. At times, because of some complications, or heredity and environmental factors, there is the late development process of the nervous system. In cases such as these, it is important that you seek guidance and treatment from a neurologist. Seek treatment from the best neurologist in Delhi for the well being of your child.
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7 Possible Causes For Lower Back Pain
Often, we may feel a stinging and sudden pain in the lower back. It can because of sitting for long hours in the same position. Lower back pain is a common condition and usually, there is no cause for concern as it gets better on its own. Almost everyone, at some point in their life, has faced it. However, at times the pain can be as a result of injuries or straining of muscles or because of some diseases, one can feel intense pain or ache in their lower back.
Symptoms of Lower Back Pain
One can easily detect lower back pain as they feel a dull ache in their back. The pain can be acute or chronic, varying from person to person and what injury they have. Symptoms can aggravate over time, some of them are -
- Dull ache- The pain is felt in the lower back, usually when there is a minor injury or a muscle strain. One can experience severe spasms, and difficulty in moving.
- Stinging back pain that affects the buttocks, pelvis, hip, legs and the feet.
- Pain that intensifies as you sit for long hours, etc.
What causes lower back pain?
The human body is an intricate design and is prone to injuries if not taken care of. There are numerous reasons why one may have a backache. Factors such as age, gender, etc. too can cause lower back pain. The pain can range from minor, dull ache in the back to intense pain that hurts when you move and hampers your daily life.
Some of the possible causes are -
Injuries
Many a time, one can get severely injured while playing sports, driving or during road accidents or a fall that can inflict injury one. Receiving such a painful blow on the lower back can damage the spinal cord, or leave you with vertebral fractures. In cases such as these, it’s important to seek lower back pain treatment, to avoid any further complications.
Sprains and strains
Sprains and strains of the ligaments and muscles, can occur in the lower back suddenly because of some heavy work. This can be as a result of overstretching or tearing in muscles and ligaments. Symptoms can include muscle spasms, pain and stiffness in the back.
Disc Injury
The discs are the spongy cushions that are located between the vertebral column. These discs are delicate and are prone to injury as they can tear or herniate. The soft material in the discs can rupture or bulge and affect a nerve. Disc injury can occur after twisting your back or while lifting something heavy. Disc injury may go unnoticed or only seen during an X-ray.
Sciatica
A person with sciatica can fell stinging pain that runs down from the lower back to one or both the legs. This is because the pain radiates along the path of the sciatica nerve. Symptoms may include burning pain or piercing of sharp needles. At home, for quick pain relief, one should use an ice pack at the sight of pain.
Spinal stenosis
In spinal stenosis, the spinal canal starts narrowing, which in return can add pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves in the spine. This condition is common amongst people over the age of 50 years. Spinal stenosis occurs due to the degeneration of the discs between the vertebral column. One may experience symptoms such as numbness, cramping and weakness in the legs. The very first symptoms that one may notice is difficulty while walking or standing.
Abnormal spinal curvature
When seen in an X-ray, the spinal cord looks like a ‘S’ from the side. This is the normal spine curvature. However, some people are born with deformities. Abnormal curve can cause poor posture and pain as it puts pressure on the tendons, vertebrae, muscles and ligaments. Some of the abnormal spinal curvatures that are detected during childhood or early adolescence are- scoliosis, kyphosis and lordosis.
Health conditions.
There are several health conditions that can be a cause for lower back pain. Some of them are as follows :
- Arthritis is a medical condition wherein there is an inflammation of the joints. It is usually common among people of old age.
- Pregnancy, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, cancer, etc are the lower back pain causes in females.
- Spondylitis is another type of inflammation between the joints of the spinal cord.
Can a neurologist help with lower back pain?
The answer is YES. A neurologist can help with lower back pain. Very often people go to a chiropractor for back pain, however, what is not known is that even a neurologist can diagnose and treat diseases of the back. A neurologist specializes in conditions affecting the brain, nervous system and the spinal cord. They can detect the symptoms and causes for your back pain.
While lower back pain is a common condition, it is necessary that you seek the proper treatment from an expert.
Is Your Diet Cola Making You Dumb
Is Your Diet Cola Making You Dumb?
The artificial sweeteners used in diet sodas—and thousands of other processed foods—are anything but sweet. In fact, they can be toxic to the brain. Consuming these sugar substitutes on a regular basis is not a recipe for a healthy memory.
We see a lot of patients, who believe artificial sugar drinks are good and would help them lose weight. On the other hand these drinks tend to cause digestive issues, arthritis, forgetfulness, and confusion. In fact, these chemical laden drinks can hurt your brain and cause memory loss.
Research has linked drinking diet colas to stroke and Alzheimer’s disease.
4 Ways Artificial Sweeteners Steal Your Mind-
- Forgetful.
One of the most commonly used artificial sweeteners, aspartame, is extremely harmful to the brain. In simple words aspartame works by stimulating brain cells, but in excessive amounts and over long term it can overstimulate the brain cells and works like a potent neurotoxin. It can damage brain cells and cause cell death, which leads to forgetfulness and ultimately dementia.
- Chronically High Insulin
Elevated insulin levels increase your risk for Alzheimer’s disease and also raises the risk of heart disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and other health problems. High Insulin is associated with weight gain and obesity.
- Slow Metabolism
Contrary to the belief that artificial sweeteners can cause weight loss, they actually make you gain weight. Many animal studies have shown that artificial sugars slow down the metabolism and cause weight gain. In one such study, rats which were fed artificially sweetened food, were found to have slower metabolisms and greater weight gain than those given sugar-sweetened foods—
despite the fact that the rats that ate sugary foods consumed more calories than those that are artificially sweetened foods. Both diabetes and obesity are considered independent risk factors for memory problems and several forms of dementia.
- Impaired Gut Health
Artificial sweeteners (aspartame, sucralose, saccharine, and acesulfame potassium) have toxic effects on gut bacteria. Compromised gut bacteria can lead to issues such as indigestion, acidity, impaired absorption of nutrients like leaky gut, a condition in which the lining of the gut becomes excessively permeable. Leaky gut has been linked to the development of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Sweeter Alternatives
If you want to avoid sugar and don’t want the damage that comes from artificial sweeteners, here are two options.
Erythritol, a sugar alcohol that comes in crystals or powder form, is calorie-free and doesn’t cause blood sugar or insulin levels to spike. (Note: Be aware that sugar alcohols, such as Xylitol and Maltitol, may cause GI distress.)
Stevia, a natural plant extract, is 200-300 times sweeter than sugar, but it does not impact blood sugar levels the way sugar does. Some evidence suggests stevia may stabilize blood sugar, but more research is needed. (Note: If you take medication for blood pressure or diabetes, talk to a healthcare provider before using stevia.)
Originally Published On Max HealthCare - Is Your Diet Cola Making You Dumb?
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Is Sex A Common Cause Of Brain Stroke?
Is Sex A Common Cause Of Brain Stroke?
India, with the largest number of patients suffering from hypertension, obesity, and diabetes (unfortunately, they are the risk factors for stroke) may very well be called as the “Stroke Capital” or at least would be heading towards becoming one.
The more we know about stroke, the better we are going to be in dealing with this menace. In my practice, I come across various patients with varying degrees of curiosity about the causes of stroke. One such curious query that is often directed my way is whether “Sex can cause brain stroke”?
Unfortunately, the answer to that question is “Yes”. Sex is not a common cause of stroke but, it has been associated with various kinds of brain stroke.
The neurology literature does talk about brain strokes in patients during the sexual intercourse and even following it.
Now, what is interesting in this regard is how does sex cause stroke?
Patients have been known to have strokes where a blood clot travels from the legs to heart (during sexual activity) and then makes its way into the brain to cause a blockage in the blood flow to the brain. Subarachnoid hemorrhage (kind of stroke where a blood vessel ruptures to spill blood into the brain) has also been associated with sexual activity and those patients suffer from a severe and terrible headache often associated with nausea or vomiting. In some patients, the blood vessels in the neck that carry blood from the heart to the brain may get injured or dissected and may cause a stroke. Sex, although not very often can cause brain stroke.
So, that brings me to another question, how would one know if he or she is having a stroke. Recognizing stroke is a matter of knowledge and awareness and not expertise. If you know the signs and symptoms of stroke you don’t need a doctor to diagnose stroke.
STROKE: REMEMBER THE 7 S METHOD TO DIAGNOSE STROKE
- SUDDEN (symptoms usually start suddenly)
- SIDE WEAK ( face, arm or leg or all three can get weak)
- SPINNING ( VERTIGO) with disbalanced
- Sight ( loss of vision)
- SECONDS ( note the time when the symptoms start and rush to the hospital)
Any of these symptoms can be present, all of them don’t need to present to diagnose stroke.
Is Stroke treatable?
Yes of course it is, but the likelihood of good recovery goes down with every passing minute. According to a study done by researchers in 2006 in the USA, a patient with ischemic stroke (stroke due to the blocked blood vessel) loses 190,0000 brain cells every minute, about 14000,000,000 nerve connections are destroyed every minute and 12 km (7.5 miles) of nerve fibers are lost every minute. The end result is the patient is paralyzed for life and becomes dependent. That's pretty scary!!!
What is the single most important factor in stroke care?
The most important part of stroke care is not the doctor or the hospital, it’s the patient! Patients tend to ignore their symptoms and hence delay the treatment. If the patient and the family are aware of stroke symptoms they can reach the hospital in time and can get treated.
Is there any treatment for Stroke?
Yes. The treatment depends on which kind of stroke the patient has. Up to 85 % of all strokes are ischemic (blocked blood vessel). For ischemic brain attack, there is an option of intravenous medication called tPA (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator) available which can be given to the patient within the first 3 to 4.5 hours of the symptom onset. The patients who have a blockage in a large blood vessel can be offered a procedure called Mechanical Thrombectomy ( can be done up to 24 hours, but sooner the better!!!), which involves removing
the blockage in the blood vessel and restoring the blood supply. This procedure is done through a small nick in the groin and there is no open surgery involved. Recent trials have shown that patients do exceedingly well post mechanical thrombectomy and have a greater chance to live life independently.
Originally Published On Max HealthCare - Is Sex A Common Cause Of Brain Stroke?
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Are You Stroke Smart? Calculate Your Stroke Smart Score
Let’s see if you are stroke smart. Below are eleven questions based on general knowledge about stroke. Try and answer them and then score yourself to see if you are a Stroke Novice or a Stroke GOD. Every question is one point.
1. What is Stroke?
- Is it how you swim?
- Related to cricket?
- A brain emergency
- A heart disease.
- Its bad, but I don’t know what it is exactly
Answer: Stroke is rapid and sudden damage to the brain. Also known as brain attack or paralytic attack.
2. How common is a stroke?
- Very rare, I haven't heard anything about it.
- It's common but I will never see it in my life.
- Who cares!!!
- It’s so common that someone close to me might be having one right now.
Answer D: Stroke is the third leading cause of death, after coronary heart disease and cancer. On average, someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds. More women die of stroke than of breast cancer.
3. Which organ does stroke affect?
- Brain
- Heart
- Lungs
- Muscles
- Cricket bat
Answer A: Brain, Brain, Brain.
4. How do you diagnose Stroke?
- Stroke is painful, chest pain may occur.
- Stroke can cause a lot of symptoms like weakness, numbness, slurred speech etc.
- Stroke can’t be diagnosed; it is happening quietly inside the body.
- Only doctors can diagnose it.
Answer B: Stroke can cause a lot of symptoms like weakness, numbness, slurred speech etc. Most of the strokes are painless. Stroke can be diagnosed reliably by patients and their relatives. In fact, its easy to diagnose stroke, keep reading....
STROKE: REMEMBER THE 7 S METHOD TO DIAGNOSE STROKE
SUDDEN (symptoms usually start suddenly)
SLURRED SPEECH ( speech is not clear, as if drunk)
SIDE WEAK ( face, arm or leg or all three can get weak)
SPINNING (VERTIGO) and disbalance.
Sight ( sudden loss of vision)
SECONDS (note the time when the symptoms start and rush to the hospital).
5. Who is at risk of having Stroke?
- Stroke affects old people only.
- Stroke affects unhealthy old people.
- Stroke can affect the young and the old generation.
- Babies don’t have a stroke.
Answer C: Up to one-third of stroke patients belong to the age group of 20 to 60. Even babies can have a stroke.
6. Is paralysis/ stroke treatable?
- No way. It’s permanent.
- Ayurveda or homeopathy may help.
- Yes, Yes, Yes
Answer C: Yes. Newer treatment modalities have changed the paradigm of stroke treatment. Stroke is very much treatable and the patients do extremely well.
7. What should you do if someone close to you has a stroke?
- Lay them on the floor and get them some water.
- Wait for the symptoms to get better.
- Ask them to sleep, maybe they are tired.
- Rush to the hospital.
Answer D: Rush to the hospital immediately. Don’t waste time. The longer you wait the more brain injury happens. Brain loses 1900000 brain cells every minute.
8. How bad is stroke?
- Not really, no one dies of a stroke.
- Stroke can kill you!
- The stroke will get better, just stay calm.
- Stroke is like the flu. It will pass over.
Answer B: Over 15% of people who have had a stroke die within 30 days, and 15-30% of people who survive a stroke are permanently disabled.
9. Is it worse in women or men?
- Doesn’t matter.
- Men
- Women
- Men have more strokes but women die more often.
Answer D: Women have a higher stroke mortality rate than men. Six in ten stroke deaths occur in women, largely due to strokes occurring later in life in women, when strokes are more dangerous.
10. Is it preventable?
- No, it’s your karma
- Yes, of course, you don’t need a doctor.
- I am not sure
- It's all in the genes.
Answer B: Yes, it is. Control BP, sugar and cholesterol. Stop smoking. Active lifestyle and daily exercise prevent stroke. Some strokes may be genetic though.
11. Until how long is the recovery possible?
- 1 week and then no recovery is seen.
- 1 month
- 1 year
- 2 years.
Answer D: People seem to think that recovery is only possible for the first few days after a stroke, however, patients can continue to recover with physical therapy for up to a year in most cases and sometimes recovery is seen even at 2 years.
Stroke SMART score:
0-4: Stroke Novice
5-7: Stroke Player
8-10: Stroke Pro
11: Stroke GOD
Originally Published On Max HealthCare - Are You Stroke Smart? Calculate Your Stroke Smart Score
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A Harmless Neck Massage Could Cause Stroke!
A Harmless Neck Massage Could Cause Stroke!
How many times have we gone to a salon for a haircut or to a parlour for a beauty treatment and received a complimentary head and neck massage? Little do we know that a harmless neck massage could be a harbinger of something much worse, like a stroke? Yes, you read it right and your eyes and brain are serving you well.
Our brain is by far the most important organ of the body and that is probably a good reason that God decided to keep it at the top, well protected on all sides by a strong skull. However smart the guy upstairs may have been, he had to find a way to connect the brain to the body and that’s where the whole problem started.
The brain communicates with the whole body as the nerves fibres descend down through the neck and then spread all over. The blood supply to the brain also comes up from the neck in the form of four big tubes, two in the front and two at the back. Neck thus is kind of important. As these blood vessels travel north to the brain they are vulnerable to injury and damage. Any vigorous neck movement that pulls the neck backward or pushes it forward can injure the blood vessels. Injury to the blood vessel is known as dissection in medical terms and can lead to the devastating paralytic attack or brain attack.
You will be surprised to know that even though it may seem unlikely but we are subjected to such movements on a daily basis. A massage therapist, a chiropractor, a beauty therapist, a barber, or anyone who has their hands on your neck can literally kill you (no pun intended). Neurology literature is filled with such case reports where neck manipulation or wrong positioning of the neck has led to injury to the blood vessels leading to a stroke or paralytic brain attack. Terms like “Barber Chair stroke” or “Beauty parlour stroke” have been coined for the same reason. As the blood vessel gets injured the blood supply to the brain may get blocked or reduced leading to neurological deficits like paralysis.
Simple Steps that can keep you out of danger
The first step in making a change for good is the awareness of the situation. Now that you are aware of the danger, simple steps can prevent such disastrous outcomes. Just follow the precautions mentioned below and you should be safe and ready for a good relaxing massage (Don’t touch the neck).
- Avoid any vigorous movements or overextension of the neck.
- Any movement that creates pain should be avoided.
- Do not crack your neck or go for neck manipulation unless under the supervision of a well-qualified professional. Avoid it, if possible.
- Injury to a blood vessel causing neck pain may also lead to dizziness, vertigo, nausea, or vomiting. Do not ignore these symptoms—rush to the hospital.
- Avoid neck massages by unqualified staff.
To aid relaxation and ease muscle tension safely, consider using a Turbo Massage Gun or a Neck Massager.
How would you know if you were having a stroke due to vessel injury/dissection?
STROKE: REMEMBER THE 6 S METHOD TO DIAGNOSE STROKE
- SUDDEN (symptoms start suddenly)
- SLURRED SPEECH ( speech is not clear, as if drunk)
- SIDE WEAK ( face, arm or leg or all three can get weak)
- SPINNING ( VERTIGO)
- SEVERE HEADACHE/NECK PAIN
- SECONDS ( note the time when the symptoms start and rush to the hospital)
ANY OF THESE SYMPTOMS CAN BE PRESENT IN ANY COMBINATION. YOU DON’T NEED ALL SYMPTOMS TO DIAGNOSE STROKE.
What to do next?
Rush to the hospital. STROKE OR BRAIN ATTACK IS TREATABLE. Every minute counts. According to a study done by researchers in 2006 in the USA, a patient with ischemic stroke loses 190,0000 brain cells every minute. Every 10 minutes the brain loses brain cells equal to the population of Delhi.
Can a patient recover from paralysis?
Yes, stroke is treatable and patients can recover very well IF the treatment is given in time.
What is the single most important factor in stroke care?
The most important part of stroke care is the patient. Patients tend to ignore their symptoms and delay the treatment which can lead to irreversible paralysis and even death. If the patient and the family are aware of stroke symptoms they can reach the hospital in time and can get treated.
Originally Published On Max Health Care – A Harmless Neck Massage Could Cause Stroke!
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Is Brain Attack Or Stroke An Emergency?
Is Brain Attack Or Stroke An Emergency?
Yes, a brain attack, commonly known as a stroke, is indeed a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and intervention. It can occur due to two main reasons: a blocked vessel (ischemic stroke) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke or subarachnoid hemorrhage).
Dr. Chandril Chugh, Senior Consultant and Head of Interventional Neurology of Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, says that stroke/brain attack may cause these following symptoms:
- Weakness and numbness on one side of the body
- Difficulty in speaking and understanding the words
- Drowsiness
- Loss of vision
- Severe headaches or in some cases Death.
The severity of a stroke cannot be overstated. Studies have shown that every minute during an ischemic stroke, a patient loses a staggering number of brain cells, nerve connections, and nerve fibers. This rapid loss of brain tissue can result in permanent neurological deficits, leaving the patient paralyzed and dependent for life.
*Symptoms depend on which part of the brain is affected and if not treated well in time, the weakness and other neurological defects may become permanent and extremely disabling.
How Severe Can Be A Stroke?
The severity of a stroke cannot be overstated. Findings from a 2006 study conducted in the USA revealed alarming statistics. For instance, a patient experiencing an ischemic stroke loses a staggering 190,000 brain cells per minute. Additionally, approximately 14 billion nerve connections are severed every minute, while 12 km (7.5 miles) of nerve fibers are lost within the same timeframe. These sobering figures often culminate in permanent paralysis and lifelong dependency, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
How Do You Recognise Stroke?
Recognizing the signs of a stroke is crucial for timely intervention. The "6 S Method" can help in diagnosing a stroke:
- Sudden Onset: Symptoms usually start suddenly.
- Slurred Speech: Speech may become unclear, resembling drunken speech.
- Side Weakness: Weakness may affect the face, arm, leg, or all three on one side of the body.
- Spinning Sensation: Vertigo or dizziness may occur.
- Severe Headache: A sudden and severe headache may indicate a hemorrhagic stroke.
- Seconds Count: Note the time when symptoms start and seek medical help immediately.
Is There Any Treatment For Stroke?
Treatment modalities vary based on the type of stroke. For ischemic strokes, intravenous administration of tPA (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator) within 3 to 4.5 hours of symptom onset is a viable option. Alternatively, patients with blockages in large blood vessels may benefit from Mechanical Thrombectomy, a minimally invasive procedure that restores blood flow by removing obstructions.
The cornerstone of effective stroke management lies in raising awareness among patients and their families. Given that most strokes are painless, individuals may disregard initial symptoms, leading to delays in seeking medical assistance. By educating individuals about stroke symptoms, we empower them to recognize warning signs promptly, facilitating timely intervention and enhancing overall outcomes.
Conclusion:
In addition to medical interventions, lifestyle modifications and preventive measures play a crucial role in reducing the risk of stroke. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco use, and limiting alcohol consumption, can significantly lower the risk of stroke. Managing underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels through medication and regular check-ups can also help prevent stroke. Furthermore, staying informed about stroke warning signs and seeking immediate medical attention in case of any symptoms can save lives and prevent long-term disability.
Originally Published On Max Health Care - Is Brain Attack Or Stroke An Emergency?
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Stroke Is The Number One Cause Of Disability
Stroke is the number one cause of disability and one of the leading causes of death in our country. Stroke disorder is sudden and severe damage to brain cells, resulting in paralysis, coma, and even death. There are three kinds of stroke: ischemic ( blockage of blood vessels), hemorrhagic( known as brain haemorrhage or blood clot in common language) and subarachnoid haemorrhage ( due to aneurysms). Below we discuss the common facts regarding the stroke diagnosis and treatment of brain stroke.
Yes, it is a medical emergency. A brain attack occurs due to a blocked vessel (medically known as ischemic stroke) or due to a ruptured blood vessel (medically known as hemorrhagic stroke or a subarachnoid haemorrhage) followed by stroke death.
- Weakness and numbness on one side of the body
- Difficulty in speaking and understanding the words
- Drowsiness
- Loss of vision
- Severe headaches or, in some cases, Death.
Symptoms and stroke complications depend on which part of the brain is affected, and if not treated well in time, stroke during sleep is also very common; the weakness and other neurological defects may become permanent and extremely disabling.
Can Stroke Be Really Serious?
If I were to say stroke disability is terrible, you will probably not believe me. Being in touch with a neurosurgeon in Patna is suggested. Luckily, some studies have made my job easier. According to a study done by researchers in 2006 in the USA, a patient with ischemic stroke loses 190,00,00 brain cells every minute, about 14000,000,000 nerve connections are destroyed every minute, and 12 km (7.5 miles) nerve fibers are lost every minute. The end result is, the patient gets paralyzed for life and becomes dependent. That’s pretty scary!!! One should be aware of symptoms that cause brain haemorrhage . If the caregiver does not understand english they should be explained the brain attack symptoms in hindi.
How Do You Recognise Stroke?
STROKE: REMEMBER THE 6 S METHOD TO DIAGNOSE STROKE
- SUDDEN (symptoms usually start suddenly)
- SLURRED SPEECH ( speech is not clear, as if drunk)
- SIDE WEAK ( face, arm or leg or all three on one side can get weak )
- SPINNING ( VERTIGO)
- Severe headache
- SECONDS ( note the time when the symptoms start and rush to the hospital)
Is There Any Treatment For Stroke?
- 85% of all strokes are ischemic (blocked blood vessels); the treatment depends on stroke classification or which kind of stroke the person has had. For stroke disease treatment there is an option of intravenous medication called tPA (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator), which is given to the patient 3 to 4.5 hours before the onset of the symptoms. The patients who have a blockage in a large blood vessel are offered a mechanical thrombectomy procedure, which involves removing the blockage in the blood vessel and restoring the blood supply. This procedure is performed by a brain specialist doctor in Faridabad using a small nick in the groin, and there is no open surgery involved. Recent trials have shown that patients do exceedingly well post mechanical thrombectomy and have a greater chance of living independently. It's better to consult a neurologist doctor in Jaipur or one amongst the top 5 neurologist in Patna beforehand.
- The most important part of stroke care is not the doctor or hospital; it is the Patient. As most stroke attacks that occur are painless, patients tend to ignore their symptoms and delay their treatment. The caretaker should make a list of the best food for strengthening nerves and follow diet accordingly. If the patient and family are aware of the stroke symptoms, they can reach the hospital in time and get themselves treated. One should be aware of the aspartame side effects on the brain.
Till What Time Can You Do Mechanical Thrombectomy?
- Mechanical Thrombectomy can now be offered up to 24 hours from the onset of the symptoms but, the sooner it’s done better, the patient does. To know more, you shouldn’t hesitate consulting neuro physician in jaipur.
What Is The Single Most Important Factor In Stroke Care?
- The most important part of stroke care is not the doctor or the hospital; it’s the patient! As most strokes are painless, patients tend to ignore their symptoms and hence delay the treatment. If the patient and the family are aware of stroke symptoms, they can reach the hospital and get treated. One should also be aware of stroke facts like aspartame side effects on the brain and how aspartame slows metabolism.
For any queries or questions regarding stroke like can a neck massage cause a stroke, which mattress is good for spondylitis or other related health issues like elders dural one shouldn’t hesitate to consult a reputed online neurologist . You can also book teleconsultation services to treat further complications.
Originally Published On Max HealthCare – Stroke Is The Number One Cause Of Disability
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Brain Aneurysms Uncovered: 24 Critical Questions Answered
What Are Brain Aneurysms?
A brain aneurysm is a weak spot in a blood vessel within the brain that expands over time, forming a balloon-shaped structure. As the heart pumps blood, this balloon (known as a saccular aneurysm) can grow and may eventually rupture, leading to severe complications. Some aneurysms may appear as elongated tubes (fusiform aneurysms) instead of balloons. For more detailed information, check out What is a Brain Aneurysm?.
Do All Brain Aneurysms Need Treatment?
Not all brain aneurysms require treatment. The decision to treat depends on several factors, including the aneurysm's size, location, and anatomy. Each case is unique, and treatment plans are tailored to the individual patient's needs.
What Are the Symptoms of Brain Aneurysms?
Brain aneurysms can cause symptoms like headaches or blurred vision, but many remain asymptomatic until discovered during routine brain imaging. If an aneurysm ruptures, it results in a medical emergency known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage—a type of brain stroke. This condition presents with a sudden, severe headache, and in some cases, the patient may lose consciousness or even die.
Does a Ruptured Aneurysm Require Treatment?
Yes, a ruptured aneurysm always requires immediate treatment. Without prompt intervention, the condition can be life-threatening. Learn more about the Treatment Of A Ruptured Aneurysm.
How Are Brain Aneurysms Treated?
Brain aneurysms can be treated using two main methods: endovascular coiling (a minimally invasive procedure) and microsurgical clipping (an open surgery). Endovascular coiling is the preferred method worldwide due to its less invasive nature. To understand the differences between these procedures, explore Endovascular Aneurysm Repair Coiling VS Clipping.
How Is the Treatment Modality Decided?
The choice between clipping and coiling depends on various factors, including the patient's age, overall health, and the specific characteristics of the aneurysm (such as size and location). At our cerebrovascular center, a multidisciplinary team—including neurosurgeons and interventional neurologists—reviews imaging results (MRI/MRA, CTA, and angiography) to determine the most appropriate treatment for each patient.
Common Questions About Brain Aneurysms
Is There Any Scar with Coiling?
No, there is no visible scar with coiling, as it is a minimally invasive procedure.
How Long Is the Hospital Stay?
Hospitalization duration varies based on whether the aneurysm was ruptured or unruptured. For unruptured aneurysms treated with coiling, the hospital stay is typically 2-3 days. For ruptured aneurysms, the stay can range from 3-4 weeks, depending on the patient’s condition and any additional complications.
Should My Relatives Be Checked for Brain Aneurysms?
Brain aneurysms are generally not hereditary, and family members typically do not need screening. However, if there is a family history of aneurysms (two or more relatives), it is recommended that all family members consult a specialist.
How Can I Ensure a Successful Recovery?
Follow all postoperative instructions carefully, take prescribed medications, and reach out to your doctor if any issues arise. Maintaining a positive outlook is also crucial for a successful recovery.
Could I Have Known About the Aneurysm Before It Ruptured?
In most cases, no. Brain aneurysms are often asymptomatic until they rupture. However, if there is a strong family history, screening with non-invasive imaging techniques might detect an aneurysm before it ruptures.
Can I Develop Another Aneurysm?
It is possible, especially if you are a smoker or have certain medical conditions like polycystic kidney disease or fibromuscular dysplasia. However, developing another aneurysm is generally unlikely.
Can I Have an MRI After Coiling?
Yes, titanium and platinum coils used in coiling are MRI-compatible.
When Can I Be Physically Active Again?
Your physical activity level will depend on your specific case. A physical therapy program will be tailored to your needs, and moderate activity after discharge is encouraged.
When Can I Return to Work?
This varies depending on your pre-treatment and post-treatment condition, as well as the demands of your job.
Are Children at Risk for Aneurysms?
Brain aneurysms are rare in children.
How Long Has the Aneurysm Been Present?
The exact duration is unknown. Some aneurysms may grow slowly over time, while others may remain unchanged for decades.
How Long Does the Coiling Procedure Take?
The coiling procedure typically takes between 1½ to 3 hours.
Is General Anesthesia Used for Coiling?
Yes, general anesthesia is always used during coiling procedures.
Will I Need Anticonvulsants After Coiling?
Anticonvulsants are not typically required unless you have experienced a seizure.
Will I Need to Stay in the ICU?
Yes, all patients treated for brain aneurysms are monitored in the ICU immediately after treatment, with the length of stay depending on the presence of a subarachnoid hemorrhage and other medical factors.
Will the Coils Set Off Metal Detectors?
No, the coils will not set off metal detectors at airports.
Can I Fly After Treatment?
Yes, patients can fly after being diagnosed or treated for an aneurysm. However, always consult with your interventional neurologist before traveling.
Do I Need Long-Term Follow-Up After Treatment?
Long-term follow-up depends on your individual case and medical history. After coiling, follow-up imaging is necessary to ensure the aneurysm remains treated effectively.
Conclusion
Brain aneurysms can be life-threatening if not detected and treated in time. Understanding the symptoms, available treatments, and recovery processes is crucial for managing this condition effectively. If you suspect you or a loved one may have a brain aneurysm, consult a specialist immediately. For more detailed information, visit What is a Brain Aneurysm?.