Poor stroke care system: A ticking time bomb waiting to claim more lives

The Nigerian Society of Neurological Sciences (NSNS) has urged better coordination in stroke treatment across all healthcare levels in Nigeria.

The call was made during the 57th Annual Scientific Conference and General Meeting in Benin City, Edo State.

The conference theme was “Managing Cerebrovascular Accidents in Nigeria: Overcoming Challenges with Collaborative Efforts.”

It gathered neurologists, neurosurgeons, pediatric neurologists, psychiatrists, and neuroradiologists from across the country.

A communiqué signed by Prof. Morenikeji Komolafe and Dr. Emmanuel Iwuozo stressed the need for a structured stroke care system.

“Late presentation prevents many stroke patients from receiving timely treatment and intervention,” the statement read.

“A coordinated system will improve early recognition, referrals, and access to life-saving treatment.”

The NSNS emphasized the need for more CT scans, MRI machines, and transcranial Doppler ultrasound for early diagnosis.

The group urged government, NGOs, and private healthcare providers to work together in strengthening stroke care services.

Proper coordination and investment will reduce stroke-related disabilities and fatalities in Nigeria.

What is a Stroke?

A stroke, also known as a brain attack, occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving the brain of oxygen and nutrients.

This can cause damage to the brain cells, leading to loss of brain function.

Types of Stroke

There are three main types of stroke:

1. Ischemic Stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked, reducing blood flow to the brain.
2. Hemorrhagic Stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding into the brain.
3. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): This type of stroke is also known as a “mini-stroke” and occurs when the blood supply to the brain is temporarily interrupted.

Causes and Risk Factors

Some of the common causes and risk factors of stroke include:

1. High Blood Pressure: Uncontrolled high blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the brain, making them more susceptible to blockage or rupture.
2. Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of stroke due to damage to blood vessels and nerves.
3. High Cholesterol: High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol can increase the risk of stroke.
4. Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of stroke.
5. Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of stroke.
6. Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of stroke.
7. Family History: A family history of stroke can increase an individual’s risk.
8. Age: The risk of stroke increases with age.

Symptoms of stroke

The symptoms of stroke can vary depending on the type and severity of the stroke.

Some common symptoms include:

1. Sudden Weakness or Numbness: Weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg on one side of the body.
2. Sudden Confusion: Confusion, trouble speaking, or understanding speech.
3. Sudden Vision Changes: Sudden blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision.
4. Sudden Severe Headache: A severe headache with no known cause.
5. Sudden Difficulty Walking: Difficulty walking, dizziness, or loss of balance.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment for stroke depends on the type and severity of the stroke.

Some common treatments include:

1. Medications: Medications such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) can help dissolve blood clots and restore blood flow to the brain.
2. Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to remove blood clots or repair damaged blood vessels.
3. Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation therapy can help individuals regain lost brain function and motor skills.

Prevention is key in reducing the risk of stroke.

 Some ways to prevent stroke include:

1. Managing Blood Pressure: Controlling high blood pressure through lifestyle changes and medication.
2. Controlling Diabetes: Managing diabetes through lifestyle changes and medication.
3. Quitting Smoking: Quitting smoking to reduce the risk of stroke.

4. Exercising Regularly: Engaging in regular physical activity to reduce the risk of stroke.
5. Eating a Healthy Diet: Eating a healthy diet that is low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol.

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