Stroke is more dangerous in summer. How can it be prevented?

Stroke is known as a winter disease, but even in the hot summer months, you shouldn't let your guard down. We'll explain why the risk of stroke increases in the summer and how to deal with it.

 

Why Your Stroke Risk Increases in Summer ☀️

In summer, peripheral blood vessels dilate to regulate body temperature, reducing blood flow to the brain. Furthermore, excessive sweating and dehydration increase blood viscosity, making it sticky. This increases the risk of blood clots forming and blocking blood vessels. This creates an environment prone to cerebral infarction.

 

In particular, rapid temperature differences between indoors and outdoors can increase blood pressure fluctuations and even increase the risk of cerebral hemorrhage.

 

Treatment and golden time in case of cerebral infarction ⏰

Cerebral infarction, caused by a blocked cerebral blood vessel, requires prompt action. Dead brain tissue cannot be revived.

 

1️⃣ thrombolytics : If administered within 4 hours and 30 minutes of the onset of symptoms, it can dissolve blood clots and open blocked blood vessels.

 

2️⃣ thrombectomy : This procedure is performed when thrombolytics are ineffective or the golden opportunity has been missed. Special equipment is inserted into the artery to directly suction out the clot or use a stent to remove it. Depending on the patient's condition, this procedure can be performed up to 24 hours after the onset of symptoms.

 

Stroke: Key Symptoms to Consider 🧐

Symptoms may vary depending on the area of ​​the brain damaged, but if you experience any of the symptoms below, you should seek medical attention immediately.

 

Hemiplegia: Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, such as the face, arm, or leg.

Speech Disorder: Slurred speech or difficulty understanding what others are saying.

Visual impairment: One side of the field of vision becomes dark or objects appear double.

Dizziness and balance problems: You may suddenly feel severely dizzy, your body may tilt to one side, and you may have trouble walking.

Summer Stroke Prevention Tips 💧

Drink plenty of fluids: Dehydration is a major cause of blood thickening. It's important to drink plenty of water to maintain a consistent blood concentration.

Adequate salt intake: Excessive salt loss through sweating can worsen dehydration, so moderate salt intake is more important than a strictly low-salt diet. However, those with high blood pressure should be especially careful about salt intake to prevent rapid blood pressure fluctuations.