Cerebral infarction, also known as stroke (Cerebral Vascular Accident), is considered the first cause of disability in the world and the second cause of mortality. This condition occurs when blood flow does not reach the brain, causing neurons to die irreversibly. Generally, stroke is associated with older people, which does not mean that young people cannot suffer from it. Dr. Marla Gallo, an interventional neurologist at our clinic, provides us with relevant information on the subject.

Most common symptoms

• Paralysis of the face or facial asymmetry
• Paralysis of the middle of the body
• Language impairment: It occurs when people have difficulty pronouncing words, do not understand what others say, and cannot adequately express their thoughts.

Main risk factors

• Arterial hypertension: Considered the main risk factor, since it can trigger a cerebral infarction.
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Inadequate nutrition
• Tobacco and alcohol consumption

Treatment

The treatment provided includes medication, surgery, and rehabilitation, depending on the patient’s condition. People who suffer a stroke should be treated within the first 4.5 hours to reduce the risk of sequelae or mortality; the sooner it is treated, the greater the chances of successful rehabilitation and recovery.

It is important to adopt the following recommendations to prevent a stroke

• Control blood pressure and cholesterol
• Avoid a sedentary lifestyle
• Recognize symptoms quickly
• Eating healthy
• Exercise regularly
• Managing stress
• Avoid tobacco and alcohol use

Dr. Marla Gallo
Interventional neurologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma