How to treat cerebral infarction?

Written by Gao Yi Shen
Neurosurgery
Updated on January 18, 2025
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The choice of treatment for cerebral infarction depends on the specific circumstances. Treatment plans for small and large cerebral infarctions are completely different, as are the treatment plans for acute and chronic stages of cerebral infarction. For small areas of acute cerebral infarction, many cases can be treated with intravenous thrombolysis and arterial thrombectomy, which are currently very effective treatments that can significantly help in emergency situations. In the chronic phase, it is necessary to actively improve cerebral circulation, brain protection, lower lipids, stabilize blood sugar, and blood pressure, among other methods, to delay the further progression of the disease. Some cases may also require identifying the cause and opting for surgical interventions, including stent implantation and endarterectomy surgeries.

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Written by Gao Yi Shen
Neurosurgery
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What is a cerebral infarction?

Cerebral infarction is essentially a manifestation of ischemic necrosis of nerve cells. However, in clinical practice, there are many factors that can cause cerebral infarction. It is essential to treat the underlying causes to effectively prevent the further occurrence and progression of cerebral infarction. One characteristic of nerve cells is that once necrosis occurs, they cannot regenerate. Consequently, all patients who suffer from cerebral infarction may have some residual neurological deficits. Mild symptoms include headaches and dizziness, while severe cases may experience numbness and weakness in the limbs, speech impairments, and even more severe conditions such as a vegetative state or death. Therefore, in the case of cerebral infarction, it is crucial to focus on prevention early on to reduce the extent of necrosis. This can effectively ensure one's safety and reduce the occurrence of various complications and sequelae.

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Written by Gao Yi Shen
Neurosurgery
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Causes of cerebral infarction

There are many causes of cerebral infarction, but the most common in clinical practice is the narrowing or occlusion of the carotid artery. Since the brain is supplied by four blood vessels, any issues with any of these vessels can potentially lead to a cerebral infarction. Conditions commonly known as the "three highs"—high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol—can easily lead to narrowing or even blockage of the blood vessels. Thus, these factors are fundamentally the cause. Additionally, smoking and drinking can also lead to vascular narrowing and cause cerebral infarction. In some special cases, autoimmune diseases can cause inflammation inside the vessels, leading to narrowing. Other causes include arterial tears due to trauma, which can lead to ischemia and infarction, or abnormal blood supply due to arrhythmias causing cerebral infarction.

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Written by Gao Yi Shen
Neurosurgery
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What should be paid attention to in the diet for cerebral infarction?

There are many dietary considerations for patients with cerebral infarction: The first point is to definitely eliminate some unhealthy eating habits, including smoking, drinking alcohol, consuming large amounts of meat, binge eating, sitting for long periods, and not exercising, among other things. Improving these bad habits can greatly help in reducing the recurrence of cerebral infarction. The second point is to adopt a diet low in salt and fat and high in protein. It is essential to avoid greasy and pickled foods on a regular basis to also reduce the recurrence of cerebral infarction. The third point is to eat more green leafy vegetables on a daily basis, especially those that are local and seasonal. If blood sugar levels are stable, increasing the consumption of fruits can also enhance the body's resistance and reduce the recurrence of cerebral infarction.

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Written by Gao Yi Shen
Neurosurgery
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Is a grade II cerebral infarction serious?

A second-degree cerebral infarction is a very serious matter that must be given significant attention clinically. Once a cerebral infarction occurs, it indicates very poor vascular quality. If proactive treatment and prevention are not undertaken to prevent further progression, the symptoms of cerebral infarction can worsen and recur frequently. This can cause severe harm not only to the patient but also to their family and society. This is particularly true for patients with severe, long-term bedridden hemiplegia, which further increases the burden on families and society. Therefore, once a cerebral infarction occurs, regardless of the circumstances, it is crucial to complete the necessary examinations and take timely treatment measures to better manage the progression of the condition.

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Written by Shi De Quan
Neurology
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Is a lacunar infarct a minor stroke?

Lacunar stroke is, in a sense, a milder form of stroke. It may not involve complete paralysis of limbs or consciousness disorders. Such cases typically show symptoms of sudden large vessel blockage. However, it results from blockages in many small vessels and manifests in various ways. Additionally, it gradually worsens, displaying an increasing range of symptoms including cognitive impairments, dementia, unstable gait, slurred speech, and dysarthria. These symptoms significantly affect the quality of life, so it can be considered not mild.