Almost half of patients report the same symptoms one week before a stroke

 Didn't occur to me. I was in the middle of a six day whitewater canoe trip down the Dog River in Ontario, dropping 1150 feet in 23 miles. Some hairy whitewater in fully loaded solo canoes. Swam a few of the rapids.

Almost half of patients report the same symptoms one week before a stroke

Strokes are very scary. Sometimes it can seem like you're fine one minute, and the next things just stop working right. If you know the symptoms of stroke, however, you can actually often see signs before things get really bad. Researchers say that stroke patients report having a mini-stroke one week before. In fact, a study of stroke patients found that 43% of them suffered the same symptoms – a mini-stroke – one week before their stroke. (1)

A Mini Stroke vs. A Stroke

Stroke and mini-stroke are very similar, but there are some differences between the two. A mini-stroke is a small, temporary episode of neurological dysfunction caused by an interruption in blood flow to part of the brain. It is also called a transient ischemic attack, or TIA. A mini-stroke differs from a stroke in two ways: The damage to your brain is not as severe, and it does not last as long. A mini-stroke also has a different cause than a full-blown stroke. A mini-stroke is caused by a temporary blockage in the blood vessels that supply oxygen to your brain. (2)

A regular stroke is a major neurological impairment caused by permanent damage to part of the brain. There are two main types of mini-stroke: An ischemic stroke and a hemorrhagic stroke. In an ischemic stroke, blood flow to part of your brain is interrupted due to a clot in the blood vessels supplying oxygen-rich blood to that area. This type of mini-stroke causes symptoms similar to those of a regular stroke. In a hemorrhagic stroke, a blood vessel in your brain leaks or ruptures and causes bleeding into the surrounding tissues. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, behind cancer and heart disease. It's also a leading cause of disability among adults ages 65 and older.

Related video: Stroke: 32-Year-Old Woman Describes What It Felt Like to Have a Stroke (Newsworthy Women)

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Study Shows 43% Of People Have A Mini Stroke Before A Full-Blown stroke

One study showed that 43% of people have a mini-stroke before they experience a full, regular stroke. Many of these people are experiencing the symptoms of this for days or even weeks before they finally go and see a doctor. The risk of having a full stroke is particularly high within the 48-hour window after a mini-stroke. The researchers say, however, that diagnosing mini strokes properly can be difficult, which is why it is important to see a doctor as soon as you can if you think you are having one.

"Confidently diagnosing a TIA is difficult since most patients are back to normal function by the time they arrive at the emergency room," said Hardik P. Amin, M.D., chair of the scientific statement writing committee and associate professor of neurology and medical stroke director at Yale New Haven Hospital, St. Raphael Campus in New Haven, Connecticut. "There also is variability across the country in the workup that TIA patients may receive. This may be due to geographic factors, limited resources at health care centers or varying levels of comfort and experience among medical professionals."

The Symptoms of Mini Stroke

Mini strokes are much more treatable than a full-blown stroke, which can actually cause permanent brain damage. This is why it is critically important that you are aware of the early symptoms of stroke so you can see a doctor before it's too late. The symptoms of both types of stroke include:

• Numbness or tingling on one side of your body
• Weakness on one side of your body
• Slurred speech or difficulty talking
• Difficulty seeing out of one eye or both eyes

To remember the symptoms of a full stroke, you can use the acronym FAST:

• Face drooping
• Arm weakness
• Speech difficulty
• Time to call 911

Risk Factors For A Stroke

There are several factors that increase your risk of having a stroke. Thankfully, most of them are lifestyle behavior related and can therefore be controlled by you. These factors include:

• Age
• Family history of stroke
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes or other chronic health problems like kidney disease and heart disease
• Smoking
• Obesity (BMI over 30)

The Bottom Line

Strokes are highly dangerous and all too common in the United States. Thankfully, by making healthy lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce your risk of having one. Knowing the signs and symptoms of both mini-strokes and strokes will also ensure you get the help you need before permanent damage is done. If you think you or someone you know is experiencing the symptoms of a stroke, seek medical attention immediately. It could save a life.

Keep Reading: The Weird and Concerning Reason Human Bones Are Getting More Brittle

Sources

1. "Stroke symptoms, even if they disappear within an hour, need emergency assessment." Science Daily. American Heart Association. January 19, 2023.
2. "Ministroke vs. regular stroke: What's the difference?" Mayo Clinic. Jonathan Graff-Radford, M.D.
3. "43% of stroke patients report the same symptoms 1 week before the event, finds study" Express

The post Almost half of patients report the same symptoms one week before a stroke appeared first on The Hearty Soul.

Simulating space walking: a systematic review on anti-gravity technology in neurorehabilitation

 

For me ut would be worthless. I need the weight of my body to counteract the spasticity of my legs. And since spasticity never goes away, even now as I'm chronic this would do no good. Overground training is much better in my opinion since it normally gives you perturbations you need to deal with, giving you better balance and preventing falls. 

And of course my doctor and therapists DID NOTHING to cure my leg spasticity.

Simulating space walking: a systematic review on anti-gravity technology in neurorehabilitation

• Bonanno M,
• Maggio MG,
• Quartarone A,
• De Nunzio AM &
• Calabrò RS 

Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation volume 21, Article number: 159 (2024) Cite this article

• Metrics details

Abstract

Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), cerebral palsy (CP) and stroke are well-known causes of gait and balance alterations. Innovative devices (i.e., robotics) are often used to promote motor recovery. As an alternative, anti-gravity treadmills, which were developed by NASA, allow early mobilization, walking with less effort to reduce gait energy costs and fatigue. A systematic search, according to PRISMA guidelines, was conducted for all peer-reviewed articles published from January 2010 through September 2023, using the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, PEDro and IEEE Xplore. After an accurate screening, we selected only 16 articles (e.g., 5 RCTs, 2 clinical trials, 7 pilot studies, 1 prospective study and 1 exploratory study). The evidence collected in this systematic review reported promising results in the field of anti-gravity technology for neurological patients, in terms of improvement in gait and balance outcomes. However, we are not able to provide any clinical recommendation about the dose and parameters of anti-gravity treadmill training, because of the lack of robust high-quality RCT studies and large samples.

Registration number CRD42023459665.

Introduction

Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), cerebral palsy (CP) and stroke are well-known causes of gait and balance alterations [1]. Reduced mobility owing to neurological disorders is associated with multiple consequences on cardio-vascular and muscle-skeletal systems, limiting activities of daily living and patients’ quality of life. In this context, innovative devices (i.e., robotics) are exploited in the neurorehabilitation field [2, 3]. In fact, robotic devices (such as exoskeletons and end-effectors) facilitate walking functions, even in patients with severe motor deficits due to brain damage [4]. However, these systems can limit joints movement due to the constraint of the robotic orthosis and may not allow normal gait patterns. As an alternative, NASA researchers have developed a new technology that mimics antigravity and uses differential air pressure to train astronauts to counteract muscle and bone loss. This technology consists of anti-gravity treadmills (A-GT), in which the lower half of the subject is surrounded by an air-tight, enclosed inflatable bag [5]. When the air compressor reaches the pressure in the chamber above atmospheric pressure, it creates an axial buoyant force, allowing gait training. Specifically, the air is released after the subject’s weight calibration and the calibrated weight is used as a reference for selected unweighting during exercise [5]. In addition, the anti-gravity treadmills can be used by participants of all heights, thanks to vertical frame height adjustment. The body weight support system can sustain 80% of a person’s body weight and can be adjusted progressively [6]. The safety and feasibility of A-GT was already investigated in healthy subjects, as well as in orthopaedics, post-surgical patients, and in neurological disorders [5, 7, 8]. The potential benefits of using A-GT in a neurorehabilitation context include early mobilization, walking with less effort to reduce gait energy costs and fatigue, decreasing the harmful impact on injured joints and maintain cardiorespiratory fitness [8]. One of the most used A-GTs in neurorehabilitation is the Alter G (AlterG Sports, AlterG Inc., California, USA). This helps to maintain normal muscle activation and gait patterns [9]. Thus, the use of A-GT could be an adjunctive rehabilitation treatment in those neurological patients who may manifest moderate motor deficits, allowing long-lasting aerobic training to promote neuroplastic processes. It is noteworthy that the use of A-GT could particularly involve vestibular pathways, reinforcing sensory and proprioceptive feedback, thus activating cortical areas (e.g., primary somatosensory cortex, motor cortex, insula, parietal and occipital lobes and frontal areas) [10]. In addition, aerobic exercise is a well-known way to improve neuroplasticity, as it promotes the release of neurotrophic factors like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) [11]. However, it is still unclear whether A-GT could be beneficial and/or effective as an adjunctive innovative treatment in neurological patients. The main objective of this systematic review is to investigate the literature about the effects and potential benefits of A-GT training in neurological disorders, including PD, SM, CP, and stroke. These conditions collectively represent a significant proportion of neurological disorders worldwide and are associated with substantial gait impairment that is not easy to manage with conventional physiotherapy alone.

More at link.

Unlock faster stroke recovery: Critical role of physiotherapy you didn’t know

Except you don't know what you are talking about! Only 10% get to full recovery.

The latest useless shit here:

Unlock faster stroke recovery: Critical role of physiotherapy you didn’t know

ByZarafshan Shiraz, New Delhi

Sep 14, 2024 05:04 PM IST

Could physiotherapy be the secret to full stroke recovery? Experts answer(Well, you didn't talk to experts who really knew stuff about stroke, did you?)

Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, with patients often facing significant challenges in regaining function and independence. The extent of disability depends on the location and severity of brain damage caused by the stroke.

Unlock faster stroke recovery: Critical role of physiotherapy you didn’t know (Photo by Flint Rehab)

Untold Power of Physiotherapy

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Vijay Battina, Center Head, Atharv Ability - Neurological Rehabilitation Center in Hyderabad, shared, “Holistic neuro-rehabilitation, including physiotherapy and customised multi-disciplinary rehabilitation approaches, plays a pivotal role in helping patients regain motor functions, reduce dependence on caregivers and enhance patients’ quality of life.”

Post-stroke neuro-rehabilitation and physiotherapy focus on a goal-oriented approach to drive better patient outcomes. Dr Vijay Battina explained, “Early mobilization, within 48 hours of stroke onset, has proved to significantly improve outcomes by encouraging neuroplasticity and preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis, pneumonia, and pressure sores. Additionally, repetitive training on specific tasks and activities of daily living promotes functional recovery in stroke survivors. Advances in technology have enabled a multi-disciplinary approach for post-stroke rehabilitation. Robotic-assisted therapy, virtual reality, aquatic therapy, and functional electrical stimulation (FES) are some of the most recent advancements noted to accelerate post-stroke rehabilitation and complement physiotherapy.”

He elaborated, “Post-stroke rehabilitation, in addition to focusing on physical rehabilitation, also involves addressing the emotional and psychological challenges of patients and caregivers. Physiotherapy sessions often incorporate motivational strategies and goal setting to improve a patient's mental well-being and boost their confidence. As awareness of the importance of holistic neuro-rehabilitation and physiotherapy in stroke recovery increases, it is essential that caregivers, and healthcare professionals advocate for early and consistent rehabilitation efforts to ensure the best possible outcomes for stroke survivours.”

How Physiotherapy Can Get You Back on Track

Bringing her expertise to the same, Dr Vinaya Bhandari, Consultant - Neurology and Neuromuscular Specialist at Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai, revealed, “A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted, leading to potential brain damage and life-altering consequences. There are two primary types: ischemic stroke, caused by a blockage in a blood vessel, and hemorrhagic stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel ruptures. Recognizing the signs early is vital for minimising damage. When it comes to stroke, every second counts. Immediate medical intervention and/or neurovascular intervention can drastically reduce the impact of stroke.”

According to her, key symptoms of stroke include sudden onset of numbness/tingling or weakness, particularly on one side of the body, confusion, and abrupt issues with vision or balance, abrupt difficulty in swallowing and difficulty in speaking. Dr Vinaya Bhandari asserted, “Rehabilitation is an essential part of recovery, beginning as soon as the patient is stable. The goal of rehabilitation is to help survivors regain independence and improve their quality of life. This process is highly individualized, depending on the severity of the stroke and the areas of the brain affected. It typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy to restore movement and strength, occupational therapy to relearn daily activities and speech therapy to address communication difficulties.”

Highlighting that stroke recovery is a long journey, not a quick fix, Dr Vinaya Bhandari assured, “Early and consistent rehabilitation can bring about significant improvements, even when the recovery process seems daunting at first. The journey through rehabilitation can be challenging, but with determination and the right support, stroke survivors can make meaningful progress. The sooner rehabilitation begins, the better the chances of regaining lost abilities and improving overall outcomes. Understanding the symptoms of stroke, seeking immediate medical care and committing to a comprehensive rehabilitation program are key steps on the path to recovery, offering hope and a better quality of life for survivours.”

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

Switching off ageing: People could live up to 25 per cent longer in better health if a redundant gene is switch off, according to Imperial College London. Kath Hudson reports

 Do you have a competent? doctor and hospital that will ensure further testing occurs?

Switching off ageing

People could live up to 25 per cent longer in better health if a redundant gene is switch off, according to Imperial College London. Kath Hudson reports

Research from Imperial College London indicates that switching off a protein could lead to people living up to 25 per cent longer and enjoying better health in their later years.

Back in 2017, Imperial College discovered that the protein interleukin 11 (IL-11) plays a key role in the scarring process which causes heart, kidney and liver failure, so inhibiting the gene can prevent fibrosis – the build-up of excessive connective tissue in organs – which contributes to organ failure.

Further research has shown that switching off the gene could have more far-reaching health benefits and the potential to delay many of the issues that come with ageing, including the loss of vision, hearing, hair and muscle, as well as improving lung function and metabolism, reducing the incidences of cancer and significantly adding to healthy lifespan.

Increasing healthspan and lifespan
This research is also exciting because so far the indications are showing that inhibiting this gene could extend healthspan as well as lifespan.

Professor Stuart Cook, from the Medical Research Council Laboratory of Medical Science, Imperial College – who led the research – says: “These findings are very exciting. Previously proposed life-extending drugs and treatments have either had poor side-effect profiles, or don’t work in both sexes, or could extend life, but not healthy life. However this does not appear to be the case for IL-11.”

Interleukins are proteins involved in relaying signals between the cells and help regulate cell growth, differentiation and movement. They’re important for immune responses, inflammation and fibrosis. However, IL-11, is believed to be an evolutionary hangover for humans: while it’s vital for limb regeneration in some animal species, it’s thought to be largely redundant in humans.

More interleukin 11 means faster ageing
After the age of 55, increasing levels of IL-11 are produced and previous research has linked this to chronic inflammation, fibrosis in organs, metabolism disorders, muscle wasting, frailty and cardiac fibrosis.

Clinical trials of anti IL-11 therapy are currently in the early stages for treating fibrotic lung disease and may provide a translational opportunity to determine the effects of IL-11 inhibition on ageing pathologies in older people. Early trial data suggests the intervention is safe.

In the future there is the possibility of a therapeutic drug being given in later life, or – more controversially – gene editing at birth.

The research was published in Nature and partly funded by the Medical Research Council.

More: www.hcmmag.com/interleukin

Manipulating Brain Waves During Sleep With Sound

 If you have a competent? doctor at all, this would immediately be prescribed for stroke survivors to help cognition. But you don't have a functioning stroke doctor, do you?

Manipulating Brain Waves During Sleep With Sound

Summary: Sound stimulation can manipulate brain waves during REM sleep, a stage crucial for memory and cognition. Using advanced technology, researchers were able to increase the frequency of brain oscillations that slow down in dementia patients, potentially improving memory functions.

The non-invasive technique could pave the way for innovative treatments for dementia by targeting brain activity during sleep. This approach offers hope for enhancing memory and cognition with minimal disruption to patients’ lives.

Key Facts:

• Sound stimulation increases brain wave frequency during REM sleep.
• REM sleep is linked to memory and cognitive functions, which slow in dementia.
• This non-invasive technique could lead to new dementia treatments.

Source: University of Surrey

Brain waves can be manipulated whilst in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, a sleep stage associated with memory and cognition, a new study from the University of Surrey finds. Novel technology, using sound stimulation, allows scientists to speed up brain activity which becomes slower in patients with dementia during this sleep stage. 

During this unique study, Surrey scientists in collaboration with the UK Dementia Research Institute Centre for Care Research and Technology at Imperial College London, used a recently developed technology, closed-loop auditory stimulation, which targets brain oscillations during sleep in a precise way.

Depending on which part of the cycle was targeted by the auditory stimuli, oscillations became either faster or slower demonstrating that brain waves can be manipulated. Credit: Neuroscience News

With this technology, sounds are timed to hit brain waves at particular parts (e.g. waxing and waning phase) of the oscillation. Sounds were administered accurately with a speed of six (targeting theta waves) or ten (targeting alpha waves) times per second. For the first time, this was done during the REM period of sleep when brain activity is similar to wakefulness, but movement is inhibited. 

Dr Valeria Jaramillo, Swiss National Science Foundation postdoctoral fellow at the Surrey Sleep Research Centre and School of Psychology both at the University of Surrey, Emerging Leader at the UK Dementia Research Institute and first author of the publication said:

“Brain oscillations assist in the working of the brain and how it learns and retains information. Brain oscillations during REM sleep have been implicated in memory functions – however, their exact role remains largely unclear.

In dementia, brain activity during REM sleep becomes slower, which is associated with a reduction in the ability to remember certain life events and retain information.

“Stimulating brain waves with sound can increase their frequency and this can help to better understand how brain oscillations in REM sleep promote cognition and how REM sleep can be improved in those with dementia.”

To investigate the effect of stimulation,18 participants were recruited and were monitored overnight at the Surrey Sleep Research Centre. Their sleep was continuously monitored via electrodes placed on their scalp, and the brain oscillations were analysed in real-time so that auditory stimuli could be administered at precise parts of the oscillations without waking participants.

Depending on which part of the cycle was targeted by the auditory stimuli, oscillations became either faster or slower demonstrating that brain waves can be manipulated.

Professor Derk-Jan Dijk, Director of the Surrey Sleep Research Centre at the University of Surrey, UK Dementia Research Institute Group Leader and senior author of the publication, said: 

“This could pave the way for a new approach on how to treat patients with dementia, as the technique is non-invasive and undertaken whilst they are asleep, lessening the disruption to their lives and enabling us to be more targeted in our approach.”

Dr Ines Violante, Senior Lecturer in Psychological Neuroscience at the University of Surrey and senior author of the publication, said:

“Using sound stimulation to change brain oscillations whilst a person sleeps shows therapeutic promise. There is currently no cure for dementia, only medication that can slow down disease progression or temporarily help a person with their symptoms, so it is important that we think innovatively to develop new treatment options.

“Sound stimulation, which is a non-invasive inexpensive technique, has the potential to do just this.”

About this sleep and neuroscience research news

Author: Natasha Meredith
Source: University of Surrey
Contact: Natasha Meredith – University of Surrey
Image: The image is credited to Neuroscience News