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Signs of a Stroke
Signs of a Stroke

A Stroke is defined as an abrupt death of brain cells. This is caused by the blockage of blood vessels which supply blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the brain. Because of this interrupted blood supply, the brain cells begin to die.

A stroke is the 5th leading cause of death in the US. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), African-Americans are at a much higher risk of death from stroke.

A stroke is a medical emergency which needs to be diagnosed and treated at the earliest to reduce brain damage and to prevent further complications. Different types of strokes may have a different lines of treatment.

Let us understand the different types of strokes:

TYPES OF STROKE

1. Ischemic Stroke (Clots)
An Ischemic stroke occurs when the blood supply is disrupted to a region of the brain because of blockage in the artery supplying blood to the brain caused either by the blood clots or by artery blockage. This type of stroke accounts for 80-90% of all strokes and is the most common type of stroke.

2. Hemorrhagic Stroke (Bleeds)
This stroke occurs when a weakened blood vessel ruptures. The blood spill creates swelling and pressure and damages the brain cells & tissues. This type of stroke is less common and accounts for 15% of all strokes and but is responsible for 40% of all stroke deaths.

3. TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack)
This is similar to the Ischemic stroke in which blood supply to a brain part is disrupted but this is for a short while. TIA is a reversible stroke and the symptoms disappear within 24 hours. This is a silent stroke and a warning signal for future strokes and should be taken seriously. A transient ischemic attack is also called as Reversible Ischemic Neurological Deficit (RIND).

4. Cryptogenic Stroke
A stroke with an unknown cause is called a “cryptogenic stroke.” The event is transitory or reversible and the cause is truly unknown. This is more common in younger patients than in older patients.

Spot a Stroke with these 4 key symptoms (F.A.S.T):

  1. FACE DROOPING: When one side of the face becomes numb or droops. Ask the person to smile and see if the smile is uneven.
  2. ARM WEAKNESS: Ask the person to raise both the arms and see if one of the arms drifts downwards.
  3. SPEECH DIFFICULTIES: Slurred speech or dysarthria (Difficulty in speaking or understanding).
  4. TIME TO CALL AMBULANCE: If the person is positive for any of these symptoms, rush and call the ambulance and seek doctor’s advice immediately.

Following are a few additional signs of a stroke:

  • Numbness: Sudden numbness in the limbs especially on one side of the body.
  • Confusion: Any sudden confusion, difficulty in speaking or understanding speech.
  • Trouble Seeing: Vision loss in one or both the eyes.
  • Trouble Walking: Sudden trouble in walking, dizziness, and loss of balance.
  • Severe Headache: Sudden severe headache with an unknown cause.

80 % of the strokes can be prevented.

Some healthy lifestyle changes are recommended to prevent stroke, which might seem similar to the ones involved in heart disease.
– Keeping a check on high blood pressure
– Lowering the cholesterol levels, trans fats and saturated fats in the diet
– Consuming a healthier diet including high proteins, vegetables, fruits, grains, low fat or fat-free dairy products
– Exercising regularly and losing weight to help reduce blood pressure
– Quitting smoking, tobacco, etc. Do you know smokers are at double risk of stroke than the non-smokers?
– Limit alcohol use as it has been linked to stroke in many studies.

A Stroke is a medical emergency and swift action is critical as it can help reduce the damage and prevent further complications. We @ Datt Mediproducts understand the complexity of the situation and recommend seeing a doctor immediately after a positive test of F.A.S.T., brain damage can be highly reduced and life can be saved.

Visit www.dattmedi.com for more infomation.
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Chronic Pain Living Better Every Day

Chronic pain is a pervasive issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide, significantly altering their daily lives and overall well-being. Unlike acute pain, which serves as a signal of injury or illness and typically subsides with treatment, chronic pain persists for weeks, months, or even years. This relentless discomfort can arise from various conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and nerve damage. The impact of chronic pain extends beyond the physical realm, often leading to emotional distress and reduced quality of life.

In this blog, we will delve into effective strategies for managing chronic pain, focusing on coping techniques, nutrition, emotional well-being, and lifestyle adaptations. By understanding and addressing the multifaceted nature of chronic pain, individuals can improve their daily lives and enhance their overall health.

Coping Strategies and Techniques:

Managing chronic pain involves various coping mechanisms. Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and progressive muscle relaxation, can help reduce pain perception. Breathing exercises, like deep breathing or diaphragmatic breathing, also provide relief. Regular physical activity, tailored to your condition, can improve flexibility and strength, reducing pain over time. Activities such as swimming, walking, and yoga are often recommended for their low-impact benefits.

Nutrition and Diet:

Nutrition plays a vital role in managing inflammation and pain. Anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and berries, can help alleviate symptoms. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, are particularly beneficial. Conversely, avoiding processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive caffeine is crucial as they can exacerbate inflammation and pain. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet support overall health and pain management.

Emotional Well-being:

Chronic pain takes an emotional toll, often leading to anxiety, depression, and stress. Supporting mental health through therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be effective. CBT helps in changing negative thought patterns and developing coping strategies. Seeking social support from friends, family, or support groups can provide comfort and understanding. Engaging in hobbies, practicing mindfulness, and using relaxation techniques can help manage stress and improve emotional resilience.

Adapting Daily Life:

Adapting daily routines can enhance quality of life. Using assistive devices like ergonomic furniture, mobility aids, and adaptive tools can make daily tasks easier and more comfortable. Prioritizing rest and pacing activities throughout the day can prevent flare-ups and manage energy levels. Organizing your environment to minimize unnecessary strain and setting realistic goals for activities can help maintain a balance between activity and rest.

By understanding chronic pain and implementing these strategies, you can live a more fulfilling life despite the challenges. Managing chronic pain requires a holistic approach that addresses physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors, empowering you to live better every day.

Wound Care in Diabetes

Diabetes significantly increases the risk of developing chronic wounds, particularly foot ulcers. Effective wound care is crucial for preventing complications and promoting healing in diabetic patients. In this blog, you will explore the nature of diabetic wounds, prevention techniques, and management strategies to help healthcare professionals and patients navigate these challenges.

Understanding Diabetic Wounds

Diabetic wounds, especially foot ulcers, are common complications resulting from prolonged high blood sugar levels. These wounds often develop due to neuropathy (nerve damage) and peripheral arterial disease, which impair sensation and blood flow. Consequently, minor injuries can go unnoticed and progress into serious ulcers. Left untreated, these ulcers can lead to severe infections and, in extreme cases, amputations.

1. Prevention Techniques for Diabetic Ulcers:

Preventing diabetic ulcers is essential to reduce the risk of severe complications. Here are some effective prevention strategies.

2. Regular Foot Inspections: 

Diabetic patients should inspect their feet (or have someone inspect it) on a daily basis for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling. Early detection of potential issues can prevent minor problems from becoming serious ulcers.

3. Proper Footwear: 

  • Wearing well-fitting shoes and socks designed for diabetics can prevent pressure points and reduce the risk of injuries. 
  • Avoid wearing tight stockings or socks with elastic tops as they can reduce blood flow.
  • Avoid extreme hot or cold temperatures.
  • Do not treat corn or calluses on your own. 
  • Avoiding barefoot walking, even at home, is crucial.

4. Good Hygiene: 

Keeping feet clean and dry is essential. Patients should wash their feet daily with mild soap and water, then dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.

5. Blood Sugar Control: 

Maintaining optimal blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication can significantly reduce the risk of neuropathy and poor circulation, which contribute to ulcer formation.

6. Regular Medical Foot Check-Ups: 

Routine visits to a healthcare provider or a podiatrist for foot exams can help identify and address problems early.

7. Management Strategies for Diabetic Patients:

When ulcers do occur, effective management is vital to promote healing and prevent complications.

Here are some key strategies:

  • Wound Cleaning and Dressing: Keeping the ulcer clean and protected is essential. Cleaning the wound with a saline solution and using appropriate dressings, such as those provided by DMP Velvert®, can create an optimal healing environment. It provides a barrier to external contaminants, aids absorption of exudates and accelerates wound healing.
  • Debridement: Removing dead tissue from the wound (debridement) can accelerate the healing process. This procedure should be performed by a healthcare professional.
  • Pressure Offloading: Reducing pressure on the affected area is crucial. Patients may need special footwear, casts, or braces to alleviate pressure on the ulcer. Foot or mobility exercises also help in decreasing peak pressure, increasing foot and ankle range of motion and it improves neuropathy symptoms.
  • Infection Control: Monitoring for signs of infection and using antibiotics when necessary is critical. Proper wound care products, like Velvert®, which offer antimicrobial properties, can help prevent infections.
  • Blood Flow Improvement: Enhancing blood circulation through medical treatments or lifestyle changes can aid in the healing process. This might include medications, physical therapy, or surgical interventions. Revascularization results in increased tissue perfusion, which can further reduce amputation rates.
Diabetic ulcers are a serious complication of diabetes, but with proper prevention and management strategies, their impact can be significantly reduced. Regular foot inspections, good hygiene, appropriate footwear, and effective blood sugar control are key preventive measures. When ulcers do develop, it is best to catch them in the early stages when they are small, products combined with professional medical care, can promote healing and prevent complications.

At Datt Mediproducts, we offer Velvert®, an advanced wound care solution designed to aid in the management of diabetic ulcers. Velvert® dressings are crafted to provide superior moisture retention and protection, creating an optimal environment for wound healing. They also incorporate antimicrobial properties to reduce the risk of infection, which is crucial for diabetic patients. Velvert® is easy to apply and remove, ensuring minimal discomfort for patients.