Silent brain strokes: What are they? Why do they happen?

Unlike normal brain strokes, silent brain strokes have no symptoms. They can go undetected for years. Also known as silent cerebral infarction, silent brain strokes do not have symptoms such as sudden weakness, difficulty in speaking or facial drooping. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Raghavendra Ramdasi, Consultant Neurosurgeon, Jaslok Hospital, Mumbai, said, “Despite their subtlety, these strokes can cause significant damage to brain tissue and increase the risk of cognitive decline or future strokes. Also called small strokes, silent strokes can occur in one part of the brain without any outward symptoms. However, having multiple silent strokes can also increase your risk of having a major stroke and severely damage your brain.”

Also read: Understand the different types of brain stroke: Neurologist explained

Why do silent brain strokes occur?

Dr. Raghavendra Ramdasi said, “Silent brain strokes occur when blood flow to a part of the brain is temporarily blocked, causing tissue to die. This can be caused by small blood clots, narrowed blood vessels, or atherosclerosis (buildup of plaque in the arteries). The brain’s ability to compensate for these small injuries allows them to go unnoticed, but the cumulative damage can be severe.”

Who is at risk of silent brain stroke?

• elderly personAge is a major risk factor and can increase the chances of silent brain stroke.
• People with high blood pressureHigh blood pressure is a major cause of silent brain stroke.
• diabetesPoorly controlled blood sugar can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of stroke.
• Individuals with a history of heart diseasePeople with heart disease or a previous stroke are more susceptible.
• people with a sedentary lifestyleLack of physical activity increases the risk of stroke.

Silent brain trauma: Subtle signs you shouldn’t ignore

Although silent brain strokes typically have no symptoms, they often present with mild memory loss, cognitive decline, mood swings, and challenges with balance and coordination.

Are silent brain strokes fatal?

“Although silent brain strokes themselves are not immediately fatal, they are a warning sign. They increase the risk of larger, more debilitating strokes and contribute to the gradual loss of brain function,” the neurosurgeon explained.

Also read: A top neurologist explains 8 health problems that seem harmless but can lead to stroke

Silent brain trauma: prevention measures

• Manage blood pressureKeep it within healthy limits to avoid health issues.
• Control diabetesMaintain blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication.
• Follow a heart-healthy dietFocus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat proteins.
• Exercise regularlyAim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.
• avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumptionBoth of these harmful habits can increase the risk of stroke to a great extent.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor for any questions about any medical condition.