Raising stroke awareness in Kentucky

Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide, but with the right knowledge and timely action, lives can be saved and outcomes improved. 

Dr. Jessica Lee is a vascular neurologist with nearly 20 years of experience. She has dedicated her career to diagnosing and treating brain disorders caused by issues with blood vessels, focusing on acute stroke care, prevention and recovery. Dr. Lee shares what to know about strokes, their prevention and how to act fast in an emergency.

What is a stroke?

Stroke is a broad term that refers to brain injury due to problems with blood flow. This can result from blockage of a blood vessel in the brain (ischemic stroke) or bleeding due to rupture of a blood vessel in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke).

The effects of a stroke depend on the location of the brain involved. Any part of the body can be affected, as the brain controls everything — from vision to speech, to coordination and strength. Some areas of the brain are more critical than others, so where a stroke occurs is important to emphasize.

A common misconception is that the size of the stroke matters — and sometimes it does. But, it’s not so much about the size as where the stroke occurs in the brain that determines type of symptoms and how severe they may be. I often tell patients, “The brain is a lot like real estate, and some real estate — even small areas — are really expensive!” Location, location, location!

Types of stroke

Ischemic stroke

• The most common type, accounting for about 85% of all strokes.
• Caused by a blockage in a blood vessel, often due to plaque buildup or a clot traveling from another part of the body.

Hemorrhagic stroke

• Less common, accounting for about 15% of strokes.
• Results from bleeding into the brain tissue or over its surface, often due to uncontrolled high blood pressure or an aneurysm rupture.

Risk factors and prevention

Many strokes can be prevented by managing risk factors. 
High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking and high cholesterol are significant contributors. Of these, controlling blood pressure is the most impactful; lowering it by just 10 points can reduce the risk of stroke by 30-40%.

Lifestyle changes are essential. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and choosing a nutritious diet can reduce stroke risk dramatically. And while stress doesn’t directly cause strokes, it can negatively affect overall health, so managing stress is important.

Recognizing a stroke: BE FAST

When it comes to stroke, time is critical. Recognizing the signs early and acting fast can save lives and prevent disability. Here’s an easy way to remember the signs:

• Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
• Eyes: Sudden vision changes, like loss of vision or double vision.
• Face: Drooping on one side when smiling.
• Arms: Difficulty lifting or holding one arm steady.
• Speech: Slurred or garbled speech, or trouble understanding.
• Time: Call 911 immediately!

Treatment options

In the case of an ischemic stroke, clot-busting medications are often used. These must be administered within 3 to 4.5 hours after a person first starts to experience symptoms. For larger clots, mechanical thrombectomy — a procedure to physically remove the clot — can be performed in some cases.

For patients who aren’t candidates for these interventions, there is a focus on preventing future strokes with medications like aspirin and lifestyle adjustments.

Recovery and long-term effects

Recovery depends on the severity and location of the stroke. Rehabilitation is critical, as the brain has the remarkable ability to adapt through a process called neuroplasticity, where new neural connections are formed. While most recovery occurs in the first three months, improvements can continue for years with ongoing effort.

Families play a crucial role in supporting stroke survivors. Encouragement, patience and assistance with daily activities are invaluable.

Advancements in stroke care

Research is advancing rapidly. At UK HealthCare, we are exploring new preventive medications, neuroprotective therapies and even artificial intelligence to enhance stroke treatment. As a Comprehensive Stroke Center, we offer unparalleled resources and expertise.

Stroke is life-changing, but with awareness, prevention and timely treatment, we can make a difference. My hope is that this knowledge empowers you to recognize and act on the signs of stroke, ultimately saving lives.

For more information, visit stroke.org or speak with your health care provider.