Brain ischemia

Brain Ischemia

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An MRI scan showing areas of brain ischemia.

Brain Ischemia is a medical condition characterized by insufficient blood flow to the brain, failing to meet the brain's metabolic demands. This lack of blood flow results in poor oxygen supply, known as cerebral hypoxia, and can lead to the death of brain tissue, or cerebral infarction/ischemic stroke. Brain ischemia is considered a subtype of stroke, alongside subarachnoid hemorrhage and intracerebral hemorrhage, and is a critical condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Causes

Brain ischemia can be caused by various factors, including:

• Thrombosis or embolism leading to artery obstruction
• Systemic hypoperfusion caused by cardiac failure or shock
• Venous thrombosis
• Atherosclerosis leading to narrowed blood vessels

MRI perfusion in cerebral ischemia - (A) Improved collateral supply (B) Post-reperfusion hyperperfusion (C) Persistent hypoperfusion

Symptoms

Symptoms of brain ischemia may vary depending on the affected area of the brain but can include:

• Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Confusion, difficulty speaking, or understanding speech
• Vision problems in one or both eyes
• Difficulty walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Severe headache with no known cause

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of brain ischemia involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as:

• CT scans
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Carotid ultrasound
• Cerebral angiography
• Echocardiography

Treatment

Treatment for brain ischemia focuses on restoring blood flow to the affected area of the brain as quickly as possible. Treatment options include:

• Thrombolytic therapy to dissolve blood clots
• Anticoagulant and antiplatelet medication to prevent new clots
• Endovascular procedures to remove or bypass clots
• Surgical interventions like carotid endarterectomy in cases of atherosclerosis

Complications

Untreated brain ischemia can lead to severe complications, including permanent brain damage, disability, and death.

Prevention

Preventive measures against brain ischemia include managing risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and high cholesterol through lifestyle changes and medication.

See Also

• Stroke
• Cerebral hypoxia
• Atherosclerosis
• Thrombosis

External Links

• American Stroke Association - Ischemic Strokes (Clots)
• World Health Organization - The Top 10 Causes of Death.

Brain ischemia Resources
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