Stroke (Celebrovascular Incident- CVI): Causes, Symptoms and Management

DEFINITION: It is damage in the blood supply in an area of the brain

MAIN CAUSE:

• Obstruction of a blood vessel due to an embolism
• Bursting of a blood vessel with haemorrhage that causes damage

SPECIFIC SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

Manifestations are determined by the area of the brain affected which may be:

• Speech impairment (cannot speak)
• Arms and leg will be paralyzed or one side (hemiplegia)
• Face will droop at one side
• Incontinence
• Memory loss
• Unconscious

SPECIFIC MANAGEMENT:

• Refer to a doctor/Clinic
• Bed rest
• Clear airway
• Prevent bed rest complications
• Give diet according to seriousness of stroke: Nasogastric feeding (tube feeding), Liquid food, Soft diet
• Watch urine output and bowel movements to prevent retention of urine or constipation
• Get help with speech problems and make use of sign boards to communicate
• Passive exercise of limbs in the beginning and later more active exercises. Position limbs in functional position to prevent contractures or deep foot
• Early ambulation to prevent deep venous thrombosis

COMPLICATIONS

• Coma
• Permanent paralysis