Stroke — Causes and Prevention

Abstract

This article provides information on the causes of stroke and treatment methods. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain stops or decreases. This prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching the brain tissues. Brain cells begin to die within minutes. Effective treatments can help prevent disability caused by stroke. This is not only a medical problem, but also a social one.

Factors that increase the likelihood of developing a stroke include:

The older a person is, the more likely they are to develop a stroke. The condition of blood vessels deteriorates with age, and chronic diseases affect cerebral circulation, which worsens with age. Some drugs (long-term use) increase the likelihood of developing heart disease. Oral contraceptives containing estrogens increase the risk of stroke. Pregnant women or those taking contraceptives should be especially careful. Bad habits, especially smoking. Excessive consumption of alcohol is an important provocative factor for stroke. Cigarettes and alcohol together significantly increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases, which in turn contributes to the occurrence of strokes.