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When we think of strokes, we often think of symptoms like slurred speech, loss of movement in the face or body and numbness. But silent strokes happen without any symptoms at all. The person may not feel any of these symptoms. It is very difficult to recognize because it disrupts blood supply to a part of our brain that does not control any visible functions such as speaking or moving. The chances of having a stroke go up if a person has high blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat. Silent strokes can lead to more severe strokes.

Detecting a silent stroke:

After a silent stroke, the brain CT scan or MRI will show white spots or lesions in the brain where cells have stopped functioning. There are other subtle signs of silent strokes, like trouble in keeping balance, falling or tripping, leakage of urine, mood changes and decreased ability to think, which are usually confused with ageing.

If a person has had a silent stroke, there are chances that they will not know it unless they get an MRI or CT scan for another condition. The person may have slight memory problems and a little difficulty in getting around.

Ways to prevent a silent stroke:

It is easier to prevent a silent stroke rather than spotting one!

Here are some simple and preventive tips that you can start today:

• Exercise.
• Reduce salt intake.
• Control blood pressure.
• Manage your weight.
• Stop smoking.
• Keep your cholesterol levels in check.
• Control your diabetes.

Treatment of a silent stroke:

If a person experiences a silent stroke, they have to undergo a series of tests like ECG, MRI and CT scan to look for abnormalities in the heart. Blood tests should be taken to check for any underlying conditions that may cause symptoms similar to a stroke. Once the type of stroke, area of the brain affected and the extent of the damage are known, treatment options can be chosen. Treatments like Heart valve replacement, thrombolysis and medications can be used to reduce risk factors like blood pressure, which is one of the major reasons for strokes. Surgery may be necessary to fix damaged arteries or relieve pressure due to bleeding. All these treatments are done at Star Hospitals. In some cases, if the damage is permanent and not treatable, its effects can be mitigated by therapy. The therapy helps stimulate other parts of the brain so that the person may regain abilities that have weakened.

Get tested and treated at Star Hospitals before there are permanent damages to your body.