Aivohalvausten

Aivohalvaukset, also known as strokes, are a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced. This deprives brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients, causing brain cells to die. There are two main types of strokes: ischemic strokes, which are caused by a blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain, and hemorrhagic strokes, which are caused by a rupture of a blood vessel in the brain.

Ischemic strokes are the most common type, accounting for about 87% of all strokes. They can be caused by blood clots that form in arteries leading to the brain or by clots that form elsewhere in the body and travel to the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes are less common but can be more severe. They are often caused by high blood pressure or by an aneurysm, which is a bulge in a blood vessel wall.

The symptoms of a stroke depend on which part of the brain is affected and the extent of the damage. Common symptoms include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech; sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes; sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance or coordination; and sudden severe headache with no known cause.

Time is critical when a stroke occurs. Prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term disability. Treatment for ischemic strokes typically involves clot-busting medications or procedures to remove the blockage. Treatment for hemorrhagic strokes focuses on controlling bleeding and reducing pressure on the brain. Rehabilitation is often necessary to help individuals regain lost function.