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Stroke
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What is a Stroke?
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A stroke is a cerebrovascular disease affecting the blood vessels serving the brain. Two major forms of stroke are known:
- Haemorrhagic Stroke (Cerebral Bleeding) and
- Ischaemic Stroke (Cerebral Infarction).
In order to learn about the effectivenes of Aspirin® for the prevention of stroke, it is essential to know that Aspirin® is indicated only related to the latter, the ischaemic (thromboembolic) form of stroke.
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What exactly happens to the brain?
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The vital supply of oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to the brain is interrupted by an arterial occlusion commonly due to thrombosis or emboli from an atherosclerotic plaque.
Cerebral thrombosis occurs when a thrombus develops directly within an
artery serving the brain. If a clot forms in another area, usually the heart, and is then carried by the bloodstream into an artery leading to the brain blocking the blood flow, it is called cerebral embolism. See how a stroke developes.
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What are the causes for ischaemic stroke?
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Most incidences of ischaemic stroke are secondary to atherosclerosis, hypertension or the
combination of both. Blood clots usually form in arteries already affected by
atherosclerosis. Another type of stroke called cerebral hemorrhage is a result of a bursting
defective artery or an aneurysm in the brain. Often they are caused or aggravated by
hypertension.
It is of utmost importance to treat and control high blood pressure!
Strokes are a leading cause of serious, long-term disability. Optimal treatment and prompt
rehabilitation measures in highly specialised stroke units are important to reduce
dependency and improve physical ability and condition.
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Is it possible to reduce the risks?
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Yes, it is possible to reduce the risk for a stroke.
- Treat high blood pressure.
- Quit smoking.
- Manage your heart disease and consider an Aspirin® therapy.
- Control high glucose.
- See a doctor and follow his or her professional advice.
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"If you are taking Aspirin® for primary prevention of stroke, then logically, you should take it for the whole of your life."
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Aspirin® appears to reduce stroke severity!
Published in: Stroke, 2001; 32:2836-2840:Janet L. Wilterdink, M.D. et al.
Please contact us, to receive a reprint of this article
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