symptoms of cerebral embolism

Written by Liu Yan Hao
Neurology
Updated on September 13, 2024
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Cerebral embolism generally has a rapid onset and develops quickly, often occurring during physical activity. Within a short period of time, the condition can peak, and patients may experience sudden coma or complete paralysis of one side of the body, as well as aphasia, dementia, and cognitive dysfunction. Overall, the progression of the disease is very fast and can reach a peak in a short time. These patients often have underlying diseases, such as atrial fibrillation, which is a type of arrhythmia. In patients with atrial fibrillation, mural thrombi can form on the inner walls of the heart. These thrombi can detach and, carried by the bloodstream, block cerebral vessels, leading to cerebral embolism. Additionally, some patients have a foundation of arteriosclerosis, particularly in the carotid arteries, which can form plaques, especially soft plaques. When these plaques detach, they can form emboli that block cerebral vessels, causing cerebral embolism.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What to do about cerebral embolism?

The onset of cerebral embolism is very sudden, and most cases of cerebral embolism are caused by heart disease. For instance, atrial fibrillation or myocardial infarction can lead to cerebral embolism, which requires immediate medical attention. If it is within the time window for arterial thrombectomy, it is best to proceed with the arterial thrombectomy treatment, and this window typically ranges from six to eight hours. If the time window is missed, the patient should primarily be kept on bed rest and given medications to protect and nourish brain cells. If intracranial pressure is high, medications to reduce dehydration and lower cranial pressure should be administered. After the acute phase, anticoagulation treatment should also be provided to prevent future occurrences of cerebral embolism. Additionally, care should be taken to prevent complications such as pulmonary infections, urinary system infections, and bedsores.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Which department should I go to for a cerebral embolism?

For most hospitals, registration for cerebral embolism requires a visit to the Department of Neurology, which is the most specialized department for treating cerebral embolism. Cerebral embolism generally has corresponding causes, with the most common being heart diseases. For example, conditions such as old myocardial infarction or atrial fibrillation can easily form mural thrombi. These thrombi can detach, enter the cranial arteries through circulation, and cause cerebral embolism, leading to severe clinical consequences. The onset of the disease is very aggressive, quickly reaching a peak and resulting in limb paralysis or even consciousness disorders, requiring emergency treatment. If it is within the thrombolytic time window, intravenous thrombolytic therapy can be administered after assessment. However, one must be cautious of the risk of hemorrhagic transformation during thrombolysis for cerebral embolism. If within a certain timeframe, arterial thrombectomy can also be performed, and many in the Department of Neurology are capable of conducting such surgeries.

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Written by Tang Bo
Neurology
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What should not be eaten in case of cerebral embolism?

Cerebral embolism is a type of cerebral infarction. It is a condition caused by the dislodgment of emboli, leading to the interruption of blood flow in the brain and resulting in the necrosis of brain tissue and cerebral infarction. There are no special dietary requirements for this condition, but it is generally advisable to follow a low-salt, low-fat diet, as high levels of salt or fats can be risk factors for cerebral infarction. Additionally, cerebral embolism can also be caused by atrial fibrillation. Patients with atrial fibrillation must monitor their coagulation function carefully and pay attention to cardiac issues. Regarding the diet, it should be low in salt and fat, and if the patient does not have diabetes, there is no need to pay special attention to blood sugar levels. However, if diabetes is present, diabetic dietary guidelines must be followed.

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Written by Tang Li Li
Neurology
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What department should one go to for a cerebral embolism?

Patients with cerebral embolism should visit the department of neurology. Cerebral embolism is not a special disease but rather one type of cerebral infarction. Cerebral infarction generally includes two types: cerebral thrombosis and cerebral embolism. The former refers to the formation of a thrombus at the site of the vessel occlusion. The latter involves a thrombus originating from another location, which blocks the vessel at the infarct site. The sources of such thrombi are varied, with the most common being from the heart, frequently seen in patients with long-term chronic atrial fibrillation. This condition forms a mural thrombus in the atrium, which, during episodes of atrial fibrillation, can detach, be flushed by the blood stream into the brain, and cause cerebral embolism. Secondly, it occurs in cardiac valve diseases, such as rheumatic heart disease, mitral valve alterations, and others. There are also some other sources of thrombi, such as tumor-induced cancer, amniotic fluid embolism in pregnant women, and fat embolism in patients with fractures.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Can people with cerebral embolism eat pork?

Patients with cerebral embolism generally suffer from heart diseases. For example, myocardial infarction can cause mural thrombi or atrial fibrillation, leading to thrombi in the left atrial appendage. These thrombi may detach and enter the cerebral arteries, resulting in cerebral embolism. The onset is quite severe, with patients rapidly developing symptoms that quickly peak. Clinical manifestations may include speech impairment, limb paralysis, and numbness. In severe cases, due to extensive damage, patients may experience coma or even death. Patients with cerebral embolism can consume small amounts of pork, but it is advisable to eat mainly lean pork. Lean pork contains some protein and B vitamins, which are beneficial for brain recovery. It is not advisable to eat fatty parts, as they can increase blood lipids and lead to arteriosclerosis.