Stroke is the third leading cause of death after heart disease and cancer. This condition occurs due to a blockage or rupture of blood vessels in the brain, which disrupts the nervous system. In the Sehat Pagi program on Jawapos TV, two doctors and researchers from Indonesia Molecule Institute (IMI), dr. Wenata Utama and dr. Aditya Tri Hernowo, Ph.D., shared insights on the causes, prevention, and treatment of stroke.

Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted due to a blockage or rupture of blood vessels. According to dr. Wenata, blockages can be caused by glucose and cholesterol buildup or damage to blood vessel walls, which may form thrombus (blood clots). Stroke is classified into two main types: hemorrhagic stroke, caused by a ruptured blood vessel in the brain, and thrombotic stroke, caused by a blockage that prevents oxygen from reaching brain cells.

The primary risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, obesity, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar levels, as well as an unhealthy lifestyle. Hypertension weakens blood vessel walls and increases the risk of rupture, while obesity and high cholesterol contribute to artery blockages. Additionally, an unhealthy lifestyle, such as lack of physical activity, poor diet, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption, significantly increases the risk of stroke. Therefore, maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar levels are essential steps in preventing stroke.

Symptoms and Prevention of Stroke

Stroke symptoms vary depending on which part of the brain is affected. Some common warning signs include sudden severe headaches, weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision problems, and loss of balance. If these symptoms occur, seeking immediate medical help is crucial to prevent severe complications. Early stroke risk detection is also essential, which can be done through regular health screenings, including checking blood sugar levels, cholesterol, blood pressure, and medical imaging such as CT scans to assess blood vessel conditions in the brain.

According to dr. Adit, stroke prevention can be achieved by adopting a healthy lifestyle. “One of the key steps is staying physically active, such as walking at least 10,000 steps per day, which helps maintain overall health,” he stated. Additionally, reducing consumption of high-sugar and high-fat foods, maintaining adequate sleep patterns, and engaging in brain-stimulating activities like reading or solving puzzles can also support brain health. Therefore, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding obesity are fundamental in stroke prevention.

Stroke Treatment and Novel Innovations

Stroke treatment must be carried out promptly to save lives and minimize disabilities. According to dr. Wenata, after the acute phase, rehabilitation becomes a crucial step in a patient’s recovery. This process includes physical therapy and speech therapy to help patients regain mobility and communication skills that may have been affected by stroke. Additionally, family support plays a vital role in motivating patients to remain active, as frequent movement can enhance their chances of recovery.

One of the latest innovations in stroke therapy is nanobubble therapy, a method that utilizes oxygen in nano-sized bubbles to help repair brain tissue that can still be saved. dr. Adit explained that this therapy aims to increase oxygen levels in the body, particularly in brain areas damaged by stroke. Nano-sized oxygen bubbles can penetrate brain tissues that have restricted blood flow due to blockages, helping repair weakened cells that are still functioning. This therapy does not revive dead brain cells but supports the recovery of damaged but still active cells, optimizing their functionality. Through a combination of physical rehabilitation, nanobubble oxygen therapy, and family support, stroke patients have a higher chance of improving their quality of life and reducing disability caused by the disease.

In essence, stroke can be controlled through early detection, proper prevention, and quick, effective treatment. Leading a healthy lifestyle and utilizing advanced medical innovations can significantly enhance stroke patients' quality of life. Moreover, family and community support play a crucial role in helping patients regain independence and resume daily activities