The Vatican recently announced that the Pope Francis He died from a cerebral stroke and a cardiovascular collapse.
In Guatemala, cerebral stroke is commonly known as stroke or stroke, and constitutes a cause of frequent death in people over 55 years.
According to General Stuardo Batres, there are two types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
The ischemic brain spill occurs when the blood supply to the brain decreases or obstructspreventing it from receiving oxygen. Instead, a hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel of the brain breakswhich generates bleeding.
What is a cerebral stroke?
In general, A cerebral stroke can be defined as an event in which the blood flow to the brain is interrupted abruptly or reducedaccording to the neurologist Juan Manuel Rosales.
Both Batres and Rosales agree that one of the risk factors that increases the possibilities of suffering a stroke is the presence of Chronic unusual diseases, such as hypertension and diabetes. Other conditions, such as unrelated obesity and high levels of triglyceridesThey can also trigger a stroke.
For their part, Rosales warns that people over 40 have a greater probability of suffering a stroke. Therefore, it is essential that Annual medical checks are made to monitor their weight, glucose levels and blood pressure, among other indicators.
What are the symptoms of a cerebral stroke?
Although the symptoms may vary in each person, among the signals that could precede a cerebral stroke are:
- Generalized weakness on one side of the body
- Loss of mobility
- Difficulty in speaking and understanding ideas
- Sleepiness
- Intense headache
- Nausea and vomiting (rare)
- Loss of vision
Rosales clarifies that some people can be asymptomatic, So the stroke can happen without prior notice. In that sense, Batres emphasizes that the first six hours after the event are crucial for medical care, so, before any of these symptoms, it is recommended to go immediately to a health center.
According to Batres, in Guatemala there are two hospitals with certification of ICTUS Code. One of them is the San Juan de Dios General Hospital. This code is a medical protocol used to urgently identify and treat the acute ischemic strokes, according to data from Elsevier.
Can a cerebral stroke be prevented?
Rosales emphasizes The importance of keeping chronic diseases such as diabetes, arterial hypertension and high levels of triglycerides under control. Although a cerebral stroke can occur without warning, adopt healthy habits – such as a balanced feed, regular exercise and periodic medical checkups– You can significantly reduce your probability.
It is recommended that any particular medical concern be consulted with a health professional. Also, if you or any nearby person presents any of the described symptoms, request medical attention immediately to receive proper treatment.