Hjärninfarkt

Hjärninfarkt, commonly known as a stroke or ischemic stroke, occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced. This deprivation of oxygen and nutrients causes brain cells to die. The most frequent cause of a hjärninfarkt is a blockage in an artery supplying blood to the brain, often due to a blood clot. These clots can form within the brain's arteries or travel from other parts of the body, such as the heart.

Risk factors for hjärninfarkt include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, smoking, obesity, and a history of previous strokes or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), which are temporary disruptions of blood flow. Age and family history also play a role.

Symptoms of a hjärninfarkt can appear suddenly and vary depending on the affected area of the brain. Common signs include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body; sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech; sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes; sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance and coordination; and sudden severe headache with no known cause. Prompt medical attention is crucial as early treatment can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term disability. Treatment often involves medications to dissolve clots or surgical procedures to remove them, as well as rehabilitation to help patients regain lost function.