Causes of Cerebral Infarction

Cerebral infarction, commonly known as ischemic stroke, occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die within minutes, leading to serious health consequences. There are several primary causes of this condition.

Cerebral Thrombosis

Cerebral thrombosis is one of the leading causes of cerebral infarction. It occurs when a blood clot forms inside one of the brain's arteries, blocking the flow of blood. This can happen due to a buildup of plaque or other substances that narrow the blood vessels. In some cases, a clot may form elsewhere in the body and travel through the bloodstream until it lodges in a narrower vessel in the brain, causing a blockage.

Embolism from Other Sources

Cardioembolic stroke is another major cause, particularly among individuals with certain heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation. In this scenario, a clot forms in the heart and then travels to the brain through the circulatory system. Once it reaches the brain, it can block a cerebral artery, resulting in a stroke. This type of embolism is a significant contributor to ischemic stroke cases.

Contributing Risk Factors

Besides the direct causes, several underlying risk factors contribute to the development of cerebral infarction. The most common is atherosclerosis—a condition where plaque builds up inside the arteries, narrowing them and reducing blood flow. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and sleep apnea (characterized by snoring and breathing interruptions during sleep) can accelerate this process.

Additionally, chronic medical conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes (high blood sugar), hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), and atrial fibrillation significantly increase the likelihood of experiencing a stroke. Managing these conditions through lifestyle changes and medical treatment is crucial in reducing the risk of cerebral infarction.

Preventive Measures

To minimize the chances of developing cerebral infarction, individuals should adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and heavy drinking. Monitoring and managing chronic diseases under the guidance of healthcare professionals is also essential in stroke prevention.