INTERNAL MEDICINE AND GENERAL HEALTHCARE

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A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to brain cell damage. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to prevent long-term complications.

• Causes of Stroke

Blockage in brain arteries (ischemic stroke), Bursting of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke), High blood pressure and cholesterol, Diabetes and smoking

• Symptoms of Stroke

Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, Difficulty speaking or understanding speech, Severe headache with no known cause, Loss of balance or coordination

The principles of stroke management focus on early diagnosis by CT or MRI , swift intervention, minimizing brain damage, preventing complications, and initiating early rehabilitation to improve long-term outcome

The Ischemic Stroke is usually treated medically with Recently the option of Inducing reperfusion being available if detected very early .

The Haemorrhagic Stroke is also initially treated by Observation & Medicines . But however if the size of the Blood Clot increases , it can exert Pressure on the Brain causing more damage . Hence this may sometimes need Surgery in the form of a Decompressing Craniotomy which has significant Morbidity and Mortality

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition where the force of blood against artery walls is consistently too high, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

• Causes of Hypertension

Unhealthy diet (excessive salt, fatty foods), Obesity & sedentary lifestyle, Genetics & family history, Chronic stress and alcohol consumption

• Symptoms of Hypertension

Often no symptoms (silent killer), Severe cases may cause headaches, dizziness, or chest pain

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) Treatment Principles:

Lifestyle Modifications – Reduce salt intake, exercise, manage stress, and quit smoking.

Medications – Use ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or diuretics as needed.

Regular Monitoring – Maintain BP below 140/90 mmHg (or lower in high-risk patients).

Address Underlying Causes – Manage obesity, kidney disease, or other contributing factors.

Diabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are too high, either due to insulin resistance (Type 2) or insufficient insulin production (Type 1).

• Causes os Diabetes

Genetics & family history, Obesity & unhealthy diet, Lack of physical activity

• Symptoms of Diabetes

Increased thirst & frequent urination, Unexplained weight loss, Slow-healing wounds & frequent infections

Diabetes Treatment Principles:

Blood Sugar Control – Maintain fasting glucose 70-130 mg/dL and HbA1c <7%.

Diet & Lifestyle – Balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight management.

Medications – Use Metformin, insulin, or other antidiabetic drugs as needed.

Monitor & Prevent Complications – Regular glucose checks, eye exams, and kidney function tests.

Both conditions require long-term management to prevent complications like heart disease, stroke, and organ damage.

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, leading to damage in the heart muscle. Immediate treatment can save lives and prevent further complications.

• Causes of Heart Attack

Blocked arteries due to cholesterol buildup, High blood pressure & diabetes, Smoking & excessive alcohol consumption

• Symptoms of Heart Attack

Severe chest pain or pressure, Pain radiating to the arms, jaw, or back, Shortness of breath & cold sweats

The treatment of a heart attack (myocardial infarction) follows key principles aimed at restoring blood flow, reducing heart damage, and preventing complications. The main principles include:

Immediate Medical Attention  Time is critical in saving heart muscle.

Oxygen Therapy –Oxygen is administered to support heart function.

Pain Management  , Antiplatelet & Anticoagulant Therapy , Reperfusion Therapy (Restoring Blood Flow)  ,Reduce heart workload and improve blood supply.

ACE Inhibitors & Statins – Help prevent heart failure and reduce cholesterol to prevent future attacks.

Lifestyle & Long-Term Management – Smoking cessation, dietary changes, exercise, and medication adherence are crucial for prevention.

Early intervention and proper management significantly improve survival rates and reduce long-term complications.