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Brain clots can develop due to various underlying factors, including high blood pressure, certain malignancies, and substance abuse.
The symptoms of brain clots can vary significantly, ranging from mild to severe
Brain clots are a serious medical condition that occur when abnormal clots form in the brain, leading to a type of brain stroke. Dr. Amit Jaiswal, Director & Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon at Manipal Hospital, Bhubaneswar, explains that brain clots can result from blood clotting disorders and conditions such as hemorrhagic stroke, aneurysm, or cerebral venous sinus thrombosis. These clots can develop due to various underlying factors, including high blood pressure, certain malignancies, and substance abuse.
The symptoms of brain clots can vary significantly, ranging from mild to severe. Common signs include headaches, vision changes, sudden weakness in the limbs, and difficulty speaking. In severe cases, brain clots can be life-threatening, which makes timely medical intervention crucial. Dr. Jaiswal emphasizes the importance of recognizing these symptoms early to ensure better outcomes and minimize complications. “Seeking immediate medical attention can significantly reduce the impact of these conditions,” he advises.
In addition to isolated brain clots, some individuals experience recurrent strokes due to repeated clot formation. Dr. Harisha P N, Senior Consultant, Neurosurgery at Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, explains that recurrent strokes are often caused by clots either forming within the brain’s arteries or migrating from other parts of the body, such as the heart. The latter, known as an embolic stroke, occurs when a clot formed elsewhere travels through the bloodstream to the brain. Atherosclerosis, or the fat deposition in the arteries, is a common cause of clots forming in the brain’s arteries, leading to narrowing of the blood vessels.
The treatment for recurrent brain clots largely depends on the cause of the stroke. “For clots formed within the brain’s arteries, treatment often involves blood thinners like low-dose aspirin and optimization of risk factors,” says Dr. Harisha. Managing conditions like high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol are essential in preventing further strokes. He further explains that quitting smoking can also play a significant role in reducing stroke risk.
For recurrent embolic strokes, Dr. Harisha stresses the importance of thorough evaluation to pinpoint the origin of the clots. Certain heart conditions, such as atrial fibrillation, may require long-term use of blood thinners. Additionally, when recurrent strokes are caused by atherosclerosis in the large arteries of the neck (carotid arteries), surgical interventions like carotid endarterectomy or stenting may be necessary to lower the risk of future strokes.
Both Dr. Jaiswal and Dr. Harisha highlight the critical importance of early detection, proper management, and lifestyle modifications in preventing and treating brain clots and strokes. By addressing the underlying conditions and taking proactive measures, patients can significantly improve their health outcomes and reduce the risk of recurring strokes.
