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What is extinction and inattention in stroke?

User Windowsgm
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Final answer:

Extinction and inattention after a stroke are neurological impairments affecting a person's attention and sensory processing. Caused by brain damage from a stroke, these conditions can hinder rehabilitation and recovery. TIAs, or 'mini-strokes,' are temporary and share similar temporary effects but without causing permanent damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

Extinction and inattention following a stroke refer to neurological impairments related to attention and sensory processing. Extinction occurs when a person is unable to recognize a stimulus on the side of the body opposite to the brain damage when two symmetrical stimuli are presented simultaneously. Inattention, also known as unilateral neglect or hemispatial neglect, is a more severe condition where the patient fails to be aware of objects or the body on the side opposite the brain lesion.

These phenomena can arise due to the damage caused by a stroke—a disruption of the blood supply in the brain. A stroke can be classified as ischemic, caused by a blockage like a blood clot, or hemorrhagic, caused by bleeding. The affected brain area determines the specific functions that might be lost. For instance, loss of blood flow to areas of the cortex responsible for attention can result in extinction and inattention. These deficits can significantly impact rehabilitation and recovery.

Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are related to strokes but are temporary blockages that do not cause permanent brain damage. They can still result in temporary loss of neurological function and should be considered serious medical events as they may precede a stroke.

User Anish Shah
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