Signs and consequences of a stroke that can go unnoticed

When it comes to stroke, most people think of sudden symptoms — paralysis, loss of speech, severe headaches. But in medicine, there is another dangerous type that occurs almost imperceptibly — it is called a microstroke, or a silent stroke. It occurs so quietly and quietly that the patient may not even suspect it. However, this condition causes gradual but constant damage to the brain, and the most dangerous thing is that it significantly increases the risk of a full-blown stroke in the future, writes Zamin.uz.

A silent stroke is a minor circulatory disorder that occurs due to partial blockage or injury of small blood vessels in the brain. This process is often eliminated by the body itself, so the patient may not notice its presence at first glance. However, there are signs and they cannot be ignored.

Signs and symptoms that go unnoticed:

• Difficulty in memory. One of the first signals is forgetting words during a conversation, not remembering recent events, confusing dates and names. This condition is not related to age, but can be a sign of a microstroke.

• Motor and movement indecision. A person begins to feel discomfort in simple movements such as putting on socks, buttoning a button, holding a pen. Unsteadiness when taking steps, slight tremors when walking are observed, but many do not pay attention to this.

• Temporary visual impairment. Symptoms such as "cloudiness" in one eye, flashes, and blackouts before the eyes occur for a short time and then pass on their own. This also indicates a violation of blood flow to the brain.

• Sudden changes in mood. Unexplained irritability, depression, unexplained apathy, insomnia, and a general low mood are psychological symptoms of a microstroke.

• Extreme physical fatigue. Symptoms such as a lack of strength for previously simple tasks, rapid fatigue, and decreased performance can also be signs of an undetected stroke.

The most difficult aspect of a microstroke is its temporary nature and imperceptibility. Usually, a person associates these symptoms with inattention, fatigue, or age. However, such minor changes can lead to serious and irreversible brain damage over time.

What to do?

If you or someone close to you notice the above changes, do not delay in seeking medical attention. An accurate diagnosis can be made by examining the brain with an MRI, assessing the condition of blood vessels, and undergoing a neurological examination. Early detection of microstrokes can eliminate the consequences and significantly reduce the risk of a major stroke.

A silent stroke is the last “warning signal” that a patient has. It is the responsibility of each of us to use it, prevent the disease and maintain health.

Conclusion: ignoring the signs can be costly. The brain is our control center. Protecting it means saving lives.