Cerebral infarction, commonly known as 뇌경색, is a serious condition where a blockage in brain blood vessels cuts off oxygen supply to brain tissue, leading to cell death. This article explains its definition, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, government support programs, and prevention based on verified public health information, helping readers gain accurate knowledge.

What is Cerebral Infarction

Cerebral infarction occurs when a blood clot or embolus blocks an artery supplying the brain, causing brain cells to die from lack of oxygen and nutrients. Common causes include atherosclerosis, heart-related clots, and small vessel occlusion, often worsened by risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. It accounts for about 80% of all strokes and requires immediate action upon onset.

Main Types

• Thrombotic infarction: Clot formation due to artery hardening in the brain.
• Embolic infarction: Clot from the heart or elsewhere traveling to the brain.
• Lacunar infarction: Blockage of small vessels often from high blood pressure.

Symptoms and Risk Factors

Symptoms appear suddenly as half-body paralysis, speech difficulties, vision loss, dizziness, or severe headache, identifiable early using the FAST rule (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call emergency). Risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, smoking, obesity, high lipids, and atrial fibrillation; multiple factors increase risk significantly. Age and genetics also play roles.

Diagnosis and Treatment Methods

Diagnosis uses brain CT or MRI to check for bleeding and lesion location, with CT preferred initially. Treatment focuses on clot-dissolving drugs within 4.5 hours of onset or mechanical removal within 6-24 hours under specific conditions, covered by national health insurance. Follow-up includes antiplatelet drugs and rehabilitation, with reduced out-of-pocket costs possible under special provisions.

Government Support Programs

Patients with cerebral infarction qualify for national health insurance-covered tests and treatments, with special calculation exceptions (5% or 10% copay) under certain conditions. For instance, severe cases (NIHSS score 5+ within 24 hours of symptoms) may get up to 30 days of exceptions, though this varies by policy. Catastrophic medical expense support covers up to 20 million won of non-covered costs for low-income households, and medical aid offers further benefits for eligible groups. Details may differ by year or region, so check latest guidelines.

Cerebral infarction special exceptions apply to severe inpatients within 24 hours with NIHSS 5+, at 5% copay for up to 30 days depending on surgery. Catastrophic support targets lower 50% income households, covering 50% of non-covered costs up to 20 million won, applicable within 180 days post-discharge without duplicating private insurance. Medical aid covers over 90% for low-income with severe disease exceptions, while annual copay caps apply based on income and region.

Prevention Through Lifestyle Habits

Prevention emphasizes managing blood pressure and diabetes, quitting smoking and moderating alcohol, regular exercise (30 minutes, 4+ times weekly), and low-salt, low-fat diets. Routine checkups detect atrial fibrillation early, greatly reducing recurrence. These habits align with official guidelines.

Must-Check Items Before Applying for Cerebral Infarction Support

Verify latest details on official government sites before seeking cerebral infarction support.

• Income and asset eligibility for exceptions and catastrophic aid.
• Diagnosis timing and NIHSS score for special exception qualification.
• Current year’s application periods and copay caps.
• Medical aid eligibility and participating facilities.
• Application deadlines and required documents (e.g., within 180 days post-discharge).

Next Steps for Cerebral Infarction Response

If cerebral infarction is suspected, call 119 immediately for hospital transfer. After treatment, review eligibility for special exceptions and catastrophic aid via official government or public institution notices tailored to your situation. Policies update yearly, so refer to the latest announcements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies for cerebral infarction special exceptions?

Severe cases admitted within 24 hours with NIHSS 5+ get up to 30 days, but confirm exact criteria with the public corporation.

What support is available for high cerebral infarction treatment costs?

Catastrophic aid covers some non-covered expenses based on income, plus copay caps, varying by household.

Is MRI for cerebral infarction covered by insurance?

Covered when neurological symptoms suggest brain disease, but limited for isolated headaches.

How is rehabilitation supported after cerebral infarction?

Insurance-covered rehab is available; register for disability for additional welfare benefits.

Is preventive screening for cerebral infarction essential?

Recommended for high-risk groups, but depends on individual health status.