The Brain’s Transformation During a Stroke

With each passing hour, a stroke causes brain cells to die quickly and on a large scale, weakening neurological function equivalent to nearly 40 years of natural aging. Dr. Le Van Tuan, Director of the Neuroscience Center at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized the devastating impact of a stroke, causing patients to lose 3.7 years of life expectancy in just one hour. The aging process is accelerated by the rapid and severe destruction of brain cells following a stroke, which cannot be regenerated or replaced.

Brain cells only deteriorate over time and do not produce new cells, so the longer a stroke goes untreated, the faster and more severe the destruction of brain cells. In the case of a stroke caused by a blood clot, up to 32,000 brain cells can die permanently in just one second, and the number increases rapidly as time passes. This damage to the brain cells results in neurological disability and can have serious consequences.

Hemorrhagic stroke, caused by a ruptured blood vessel in the brain, triggers a rapid inflammatory response that further damages surrounding brain cells. The inflammation leads to the production of toxins that harm brain cells, and the longer the stroke goes untreated, the more severe the damage becomes. Removing the hematoma as soon as possible is crucial to prevent rapid cell decomposition and reduce the risk of serious complications.

There are two main types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic, with different treatment methods depending on the type. Early intervention is essential for successful treatment, and recognizing the signs of stroke and seeking prompt medical attention can help minimize the damage and prevent permanent brain cell death. Screening for stroke risk factors and implementing preventive measures can also help reduce the likelihood of experiencing a stroke.

Advances in technology, such as AI robots and modern imaging techniques, have revolutionized stroke diagnosis and treatment. These innovations allow for quick and accurate assessments of stroke damage and enable doctors to provide more effective and targeted treatment. By taking proactive steps to control risk factors and prioritize early intervention, individuals can reduce their risk of experiencing a stroke and improve their chances of a full recovery.