Strokes affect many individuals, both men and women, in Anguilla. Many women still think that strokes are mainly a man’s problem, but increasing numbers of women in Anguilla, and many other countries, continue to develop strokes. Much more is needed to educate the population on strokes and stroke prevention.
What is a stroke?
A stroke is a sudden interruption in the blood supply of the brain. Most strokes are caused by an abrupt blockage of arteries leading to the brain (ischemic stroke). Other strokes are caused by bleeding into brain tissue when a blood vessel bursts (hemorrhagic stroke). Most strokes occur rapidly and require immediate treatment. Stroke is also called a brain attack. When the symptoms of a stroke last only a short time (less than an hour) this is called a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or mini-stroke.
Risk factors for strokes in women
Although many strokes can develop without any risk factors, there are known factors that markedly increase a woman’s chances of getting a stroke. These include the following:
• Pregnancy
• Lupus (SLE)
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Migraine headaches
• Some types of oral hormonal contraceptives
Other risk factors common for men and women include:
• Smoking
• lack of exercise
• blood pressure above 140/90
• Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
• High cholesterol levels
Many of these risk factors can be controlled by the individual. Individuals with these risk factors should see their doctor for further evaluation.
Symptoms of a stroke
Some individuals have no symptoms warning them prior to a stroke – or symptoms are so mild that they are not noticeable.
In some cases there are warning signs of an impending stroke and individuals need to know these warning signs and symptoms because delayed medical attention could lead to serious consequences. Only within the first three hours after the onset can emergency treatment with clot-bursting drugs be used effectively in treating strokes.
Symptoms of strokes in women include the following:
• Hiccups
• Dizziness
• Chest pain
• Severe headache
• Body numbness, with one side being more numb than the other
Some symptoms, however, are the same for both women and men. These include:
• Facial droop or uneven smile
• Weakness that involves the arm and leg on the same side of the body
• Slurred speech or difficulty speaking or understanding
• Blurred vision
• Loss of balance or unstable walking, usually combined with another symptom
All individuals experiencing any of these signs and symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. Knowing the signs and symptoms of a stroke is the first step in stroke prevention. Dismissing or ignoring the signs and symptoms of a stroke can have serious consequences including death.
Conclusion
The signs and symptoms of strokes in women might be slightly different from those for men. All individuals should know the signs and symptoms of strokes, and seek urgent medical attentions as various medications, if used within three hours following a stroke, can help prevent stroke development and prevent many of the complications associated with strokes. As our society ages, we expect that the number of strokes in Anguilla will continue to climb. It is imperative that all of us better understand the risks and symptoms of strokes.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge MB, BS, DGO, MRCOG, is an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor who has over thirty two years in clinical practice. Dr Hodge has a medical practice in
g in The Valley (Tel: 264 4975828).
