The autoregulation curve

The brain has an autoregularity  mechanism that would protect it when there is a fall in the oxygen supply. These mechanisms involve blood flow, intracranial pressure, systemic blood pressure, heart rate, intracerebral blood vessel wall compliance and vasomotor reserve. This mechanism would fail if exhausted.

Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis carries high risk for stroke, particularly if there is stenosis of the internal carotid artery (higher risk with stenosis more than 70%). The studies showed that endarterectomy is effective against stroke occurrence and recurrence. See how atherosclerosis affects vessels

Facts about Stroke

• 3rd  most common cause of mortality

• Affect 700,000 people in USA yearly 

• 5% of  victims are less than age of 45 years 

• Rate in young  is around 11-70 per 100,000 population

• Ischemic stroke accounts for 80-85 % of all stroke

• Intracerebral hemorrhage accounts for 15 % of all stroke

• Subarachnoid hemorrhage is rare among Saudi population

• 15 – 20 % ICU admissions are related to a vascular event

Survey among Saudis in regards to stroke

A small survey was conducted among Saudis visiting Riyadh Armed Hospital regarding thier knowledge about stroke. Here are the results:

• 2 thirds recognized hemiparesis as a manifestation of stroke.

• 30 % were unable to name a symptom or sign of stroke other than hemiparesis.

• More than 80 % would seek immediate medical help if come across an event of stroke.

•  More than 80 % think of psychological stress as a major "cause" for stroke.

• Only 34 % were able to name a correct complication to stroke.

• Only 30 % think that there might be a treatment for acute stroke, but most of them can not mention one exactly.

• Only 40 % mentioned at least one correct stroke prophylaxis measure.