Q. How does a brain stroke happen?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

A brain stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), occurs when there is a disruption in the blood supply to a part of the brain. This disruption can happen in two main ways:

Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common type of stroke, accounting for about 85% of all cases. It occurs when a blood vessel that supplies blood to the brain becomes blocked or narrowed, reducing blood flow to the brain. There are two primary causes of ischemic strokes:

a. Thrombotic Stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood clot forms within one of the arteries that supply blood to the brain. These clots typically develop in areas where the arteries have become narrowed due to atherosclerosis (a buildup of fatty deposits on the artery walls).

b. Embolic Stroke: In this case, a blood clot or other debris forms elsewhere in the body (often in the heart) and travels through the bloodstream until it becomes lodged in a smaller artery within the brain. This can happen suddenly and without warning.

Hemorrhagic Stroke: This type of stroke is less common but more severe in terms of potential damage. It occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures or leaks, leading to bleeding within or around the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes are typically caused by:

a. Intracerebral Hemorrhage: This occurs when a blood vessel within the brain bursts, causing blood to spill into the surrounding brain tissue.

b. Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: This type of stroke happens when there is bleeding into the space between the brain and the thin membrane that covers it (the subarachnoid space). It is often caused by the rupture of an aneurysm, which is a weak, bulging area in the wall of an artery.

The lack of oxygen and nutrients caused by either type of stroke can result in damage to brain cells, which can lead to various neurological symptoms, including weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, and even loss of consciousness.

The risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, a family history of stroke, and age. Recognizing the signs of stroke (such as sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body, sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech, sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, sudden severe headache with no known cause) and seeking immediate medical attention is crucial for minimizing the damage and improving the chances of recovery. Treatment options for stroke may include medication, surgery, or rehabilitation therapies, depending on the type and severity of the stroke.

Read Answer Right Arrow
Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

See all

Live Doctor consultation
Live Doctor Chat

Looking for expert medical advice and care can be a daunting task, especially when you need it urgently. But with Second Medic, you can connect with the best doctors in just a few minutes and have a private care conversation with them, all for free!

Our platform is designed to make it easy for you to get the medical advice and care you need without any hassle. Whether you have a minor health concern or a serious medical condition, our team of experienced doctors are here to help.

At Second Medic, we understand the importance of timely and reliable medical advice. That's why we've made it our mission to provide you with the best possible care, at the convenience of your own home.

Our platform is easy to use, and you can connect with a doctor in just a few simple steps. All you need to do is create an account, tell us about your health concern, and we'll match you with a doctor who has the expertise to help you.

You can then have a private care conversation with your doctor, where you can discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any other concerns you may have. Our doctors will then provide you with expert advice and guidance on the next steps to take.

So, whether you're looking for medical advice, a second opinion, or a prescription refill, Second Medic has got you covered. With our platform, you can get the care you need, when you need it, all for free!

Download Our App & Get Consultation from anywhere.

App Download