cerebral stroke

A cerebral stroke, commonly known simply as a stroke, occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of essential oxygen and nutrients. Without prompt treatment, brain cells begin to die, leading to potential loss of function in the affected area. Strokes can lead to significant and sometimes permanent disability, and in severe cases, can be fatal.

Types of Stroke

Ischemic Stroke:

Caused by a blood clot or blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain. This is the most common type, accounting for about 87% of strokes.

Haemorrhagic Stroke:

Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, leading to bleeding. This can be caused by conditions such as high blood pressure, aneurysms, or arteriovenous malformations.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA):

Often called a “mini-stroke,” a TIA is a temporary interruption in blood flow to the brain. Symptoms usually last for a short period and resolve, but it serves as a warning for potential future strokes.

Causes of Stroke

1. Blood Clots (Thrombosis):

In ischemic strokes, blood clots are the most common cause. Clots can form in the arteries supplying the brain, often due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis).

2. Embolism:

Blood clots or other particles formed elsewhere in the body (often in the heart) can travel to the brain, blocking blood flow (embolism).

3. Haemorrhage:

In haemorrhagic strokes, blood vessels can rupture due to high blood pressure, aneurysms, or trauma, leading to bleeding in or around the brain.

Risk factors related to Cerebral Stroke

High Blood Pressure: The leading risk factor; uncontrolled hypertension weakens blood vessels.
Heart Disease: Atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and other heart conditions increase stroke risk.
Diabetes: Diabetes damages blood vessels, increasing stroke risk.
High Cholesterol: High cholesterol contributes to plaque build-up, raising ischemic stroke risk.
Obesity and Physical Inactivity: Lack of exercise and obesity increase stroke risk by impacting blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the likelihood of clot formation.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking raises blood pressure and increases stroke risk.

Diagnosis of Stroke

Stroke diagnosis involves rapid assessment and imaging to identify the type and location of the stroke. Key methods include:

1. Physical Examination:

Initial assessment of symptoms, reflexes, muscle strength, and ability to feel touch or move.

2. Imaging Tests:

CT (Computed Tomography) Scan: A CT scan can quickly detect bleeding in the brain, which helps differentiate between ischemic and haemorrhagic stroke.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images of brain tissue, often used if more clarity is needed after a CT scan.
CT Angiography (CTA) and MR Angiography (MRA): Specialized imaging techniques to visualize blood vessels in the brain and neck, helpful in identifying blockages or aneurysms.

3. Blood Tests:

Blood tests can check for blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, and clotting factors to assess risk factors and rule out other conditions.

4. Electrocardiogram (ECG):

Checks for irregular heart rhythms (like atrial fibrillation), which can increase the risk of embolic stroke.

5. Carotid Ultrasound:

Uses sound waves to examine the carotid arteries in the neck for plaque build-up or narrowing, which can lead to strokes.

6. Echocardiogram:

A heart ultrasound used to identify clots or abnormalities in the heart that could lead to embolic stroke.

Symptoms of a Stroke:

Stroke symptoms appear suddenly and can vary depending on the area of the brain affected. Common symptoms include:

Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, particularly on one side of the body.
Confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech
Vision problems in one or both eyes, such as blurred or double vision.
Difficulty walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.
Severe headache with no known cause (more common in haemorrhagic strokes).

The acronym FAST can help recognize stroke symptoms:

Face drooping
Arm weakness
Speech difficulty
Time to call emergency services

Risk factors for Cerebral stroke :

Age: Risk increases with age, especially after 55.
Gender: Men have a slightly higher risk, though women have a higher risk of death from stroke.
Family History: A history of stroke or heart disease in the family increases risk.
High Blood Pressure: The leading risk factor; uncontrolled hypertension weakens blood vessels.
Heart Disease: Atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and other heart conditions increase stroke risk.
Diabetes: Diabetes damages blood vessels, increasing stroke risk.
High Cholesterol: High cholesterol contributes to plaque build-up, raising ischemic stroke risk.
Obesity and Physical Inactivity: Lack of exercise and obesity increase stroke risk by impacting blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the likelihood of clot formation.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking raises blood pressure and increases stroke risk.

Ayurvedic perspective:

In Ayurveda, a cerebral stroke is viewed as a Vata Vyadhi (Vata disorder) because of its association with an aggravated Vata dosha. Vata is responsible for movement and neurological functions within the body, so when it becomes disturbed, it can lead to conditions affecting motor and sensory functions, such as a stroke. In Ayurvedic texts, stroke-like symptoms are described under conditions like Pakshaghata (paralysis) and Siragata Vata (Vata in the blood vessels), which involve weakness, loss of function, and obstruction in bodily movements.

Treatment of Cerebral stroke :

The Ayurvedic approach for treating cerebral stroke focuses on pacifying Vata, improving circulation, nourishing the nervous system, and supporting the recovery of motor and cognitive functions.

Panchakarma Therapy

Panchakarma, the Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation process, is used to eliminate toxins, balance doshas, and rejuvenate the nervous system. Specific Panchakarma therapies for stroke include:

Abhyanga (Oil Massage):

A daily warm oil massage with medicated oils like Bala Taila, Mahanarayan Taila, or Dhanvantaram Taila to nourish muscles, relax nerves, and improve blood circulation.

Shirodhara:

Pouring a continuous stream of warm oil on the forehead helps to calm the mind, relieve stress, and balance Vata, supporting the nervous system.

Basti (Medicated Enema):

Basti is particularly beneficial in Vata disorders. Medicated enemas (using oils like Dashamoola or Baladi Taila) can help restore Vata balance, support the lower body, and strengthen the nervous system.

Nasya (Nasal Administration of Oils):

Administering medicated oils like Anu Taila through the nasal passages helps balance Vata in the head region, enhancing clarity of mind and brain function.

Dietary Recommendations

Include warm, cooked, and moist foods that are nourishing and easy to digest, like soups, stews, and cooked grains.

Use healthy fats like ghee, sesame oil, and olive oil to nourish tissues and improve Vata balance.
Avoid cold, dry, and processed foods, as well as raw vegetables, as they can aggravate Vata.
Consume sweet, salty, and sour tastes, which help calm Vata dosha. For example, sweet fruits, sea salt, and lemon are beneficial.

Lifestyle Modifications

Regular Routine: Following a consistent daily routine for meals, sleep, and activity helps stabilize Vata dosha.
Gentle Exercise and Yoga: Gentle stretches and yoga asanas, like Tadasana (Mountain Pose), Uttanasana (Forward Bend), and Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose), can improve flexibility, blood flow, and stability.
Pranayama (Breathing Exercises): Exercises like Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) and Ujjayi (victorious breath) can calm the mind, balance Vata, and improve respiratory health.
Meditation and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing meditation, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques supports emotional stability and reduces stress, which is helpful for recovery.