How To Prevent Large-Scale Brain Infarction

Preventing large-scale brain infarction primarily involves managing underlying health conditions that contribute to the risk of stroke. By addressing these conditions effectively, individuals can significantly reduce their chances of experiencing a major brain infarction. The following are key preventive strategies that have been widely recognized in clinical practice:

Control Blood Pressure Effectively

For individuals with hypertension, maintaining stable blood pressure is crucial in preventing brain infarction. If a single blood pressure medication is not sufficient to control hypertension, a combination of two, three, or even four different types of antihypertensive drugs may be necessary. Using multiple medications with different mechanisms of action can help achieve better blood pressure control. Once blood pressure is consistently stable, the treatment plan may be gradually adjusted over months or even years. Eventually, some patients may only require one medication to maintain normal blood pressure levels.

Maintain Stable Blood Sugar Levels

For patients with diabetes, managing blood glucose levels is essential. Keeping blood sugar within a healthy range helps reduce damage to blood vessels, which in turn lowers the risk of stroke. Consistent glucose control through diet, exercise, and medication can significantly improve vascular health and overall cardiovascular function.

Anticoagulant Therapy for Atrial Fibrillation

Patients with atrial fibrillation caused by conditions such as rheumatic heart disease or coronary artery disease should consider long-term anticoagulant therapy. Medications like warfarin or dabigatran are commonly prescribed to prevent the formation of blood clots that can lead to brain infarction. These drugs help reduce the risk of clot migration to the brain, which is a major cause of ischemic stroke.

Manage Carotid Plaque with Medication

In cases where carotid artery plaque is present and measures over 4mm in thickness, daily use of aspirin combined with statin medications can be highly effective. This combination helps stabilize plaque buildup, reducing the likelihood of plaque rupture and subsequent clot formation. Regular monitoring and medication adherence are vital for long-term prevention of large-scale brain infarction.