Halvaukseksi

Halvaukseksi is a Finnish term that translates to "stroke" in English. It refers to a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die within minutes.

There are two main types of stroke. Ischemic stroke, the most common type, happens when a blood vessel supplying the brain is blocked, usually by a blood clot. Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing bleeding into the surrounding brain tissue.

Symptoms of halvaukseksi can appear suddenly and include facial drooping, arm weakness, and speech difficulty, often remembered by the acronym FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, Time). Other signs can include sudden numbness or weakness, confusion, trouble seeing, trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, and severe headache with no known cause.

Immediate medical attention is crucial for halvaukseksi. Prompt treatment can help minimize brain damage and improve the chances of recovery. Treatment options depend on the type of stroke and may include clot-busting medications for ischemic strokes or surgery to control bleeding for hemorrhagic strokes. Rehabilitation is often a significant part of recovery, helping individuals regain lost functions.