Recognize and Understand Brain Stem Stroke

Brain stem stroke is a quite dangerous condition and needs to be brought to the attention of a doctor as soon as possible. The reason is, this condition can cause sufferers to experience paralysis, even death.

Brain stemis the part of the brain that commands and controls various organs and body parts. The brain stem is located just above the spine and at the back of the head. One of the vital organs in the human body functions to carry and convey signals from the brain to all parts of the body.

Several Causes of Brain Stem Stroke

Brain stem stroke occurs due to disturbances in blood flow in the brain stem and its surroundings. This disorder can occur due to blockage or bleeding in the brain stem. When blood flow in the brain stem is disrupted, the nerve cells in that area will be damaged and result in the brain stem being unable to transmit signals from the brain to all parts of the body. This is what causes various body functions to be disrupted.

Furthermore, a brain stem stroke can cause a person to experience locked-in syndrome or living in a locked body. The condition occurs when a person has full consciousness and can still hear and see, but is unable to move the body at all or is completely paralyzed. Locked-in syndrome sufferers usually can only move one or both eyes.

Brain Stem Stroke Symptoms

Some brain stem strokes are difficult to diagnose because they do not have typical symptoms. People who experience a brain stem stroke will usually experience sudden headaches, dizziness and weakness. However, there are several signs and symptoms of brain stem stroke that you need to be aware of, namely:

• Difficulty breathing
• Limbs become weak or even paralyzed
• Tingling or numbness in certain parts of the body
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing and speaking
• Impaired balance or body coordination
• Vertigo
• Difficult to walk
• Hearing and vision impairment
• Hiccups that won't stop
• Decreased consciousness or coma

If you or someone you know experiences some of these symptoms, immediately go to the doctor or the nearest hospital emergency room for examination and treatment.

Some causes of brain stem stroke, such as AVM or brain aneurysm, may not be completely preventable. Even so, you can reduce the risk of having a brain stem stroke by taking the following steps:

• Consume nutritious foods that are low in fat and low in salt.
• Exercise regularly.
• Avoid cigarettes and exposure to cigarette smoke.
• Avoid consuming alcoholic drinks.
• Avoid using illegal drugs.

You also need to undergo regular check-ups with your doctor. When carrying out these routine examinations, your doctor can estimate your risk of having a brain stem stroke and provide suggestions for preventing it.

If you experience some of the symptoms of brain stem stroke mentioned above, immediately consult a doctor. The sooner you get treatment from a doctor, the smaller your risk of experiencing dangerous complications.