Occurs when the blood supply to the brain is stopped.
Causes
     A cerebral infarction occurs as a result of a blocked artery. The arteries become blocked over the years and this produces slow blood flow to the brain.
Cerebral haemorrhages usually occur as a result of weak arteries or aneurisms in the brain that rupture. High blood pressure is the cause of weak arteries in most cases. Homoeopathy
     Homoeopathy has a very effective role in treating the cases of Stroke and Paralysis. I ve number of cases treated successfully with Homoeopathy. Physiotherapy as an accessory therapy is also very helpful to be used . Remedies like Belladonna, Arnica , Causticum, Natrum Sulf etc. has given wonderful results
Symptoms
     Occurs when the blood supply to the brain is stopped. One may have Abrupt loss of Vision, Energy, Coordination, Sensation, Speech. Weaknesses or Paralysis down one side of the body, Loss of Balance. Sudden and Severe Headache followed rapidly by Loss of Consciousness.
     As brain must be continually supplied with blood through the arteries. If the blood supply stops for some reason, the result is very serious. Disruptions of blood flow to the brain are known as stroke.
     There are two types (i) Cerebral Infarction (ii)nd a Cerebral Haemorrhage.
     A cerebral infarction occurs when an artery is blocked, halting the flow of blood to the brain. The second basic type of stroke is cerebral haemorrhage which occurs when there is bleeding into the brain. As blood flows into the brain, the build up of pressure results in agonising headache, sometimes followed by loss of consciousness.
     Depending on where the brain has been damaged and how badly it has been affected, the patient usually recovers but they may have a physical weakness as a result of the stroke.
Lifestyle
     It is vital that you commence regular aerobic exercise - swimming, walking or anything safe and gentle that you feel comfortable with.People at high risk for stroke should not smoke and should eat a low-fat diet and not take contraceptive pills.
Treatment
     Patients of stroke should be hospitalised and given the appropriate medication.
Alternative/Natural Treatments :
     Alternative treatments can be marvellous adjuncts to conventional treatments with stroke patients. Several techniques can help restore mobility, circulation, and ease other symptoms associated with stroke.
Diet
     To prevent strokes, your diet should be rich potassium, magnesium, vitamin E, and the essential fatty acids contained in fish oils. Some studies suggest that selenium may also protect against stroke. Fresh fruit and vegetables.
Eat a low fat, salt and cholesterol diet, exercise regularly; keep to your ideal weight; monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels; and do not smoke.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine and smoking.Patients with stroke needs careful handling cases may take long time to recover , first 48 to 72 hrs are very crucial which decides the fate of the patient. Awareness regarding the factors predesposing Stroke can minimize the occurrences and if at all it occurs timely treatment can safe gaurd the fatal casualty.
How To Prevent?
     Prevent High blood pressure, High cholesterol, a Sedentary Lifestyle, Obesity, the abuse of stimulant drugs such as amphetamines, smoking, use of birth-control pills, and stress.