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Stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting the oxygen and nutrients it needs. This can cause brain cells to die within minutes. Stroke is a major cause of death and disability worldwide. While anyone can have a stroke, older adults are more at risk. Men have a slightly higher risk than women, but women are more likely to die from a stroke. This article covers stroke, its risk factors, life-saving steps, and how to live healthier after a stroke. Keep reading to learn how to recognize and respond to a stroke.
Types Of Stroke
There are two main types of stroke:
Ischemic Stroke: This occurs when blood vessels supplying the brain are blocked by blood clots. It is the most common type.
Hemorrhagic Stroke: This happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing bleeding. Both types of stroke reduce blood flow to the brain, leading to the symptoms described below.
Risk Factors
Factors that increase a person’s risk of stroke include:
▪ High blood pressure
▪ Diabetes
▪ Smoking
▪ High cholesterol levels
▪ Obesity
▪ Physical inactivity
▪ Family history of stroke
▪ Excessive alcohol consumption
Reducing stroke risk involves managing health conditions and adopting a healthier lifestyle.
How To Identify A Person Having A Stroke
Use the BE-FAST approach:
▪ B (Balance): Check if they have lost balance or coordination.
▪ E (Eyes): Look for sudden blurry or double vision.
▪ F (Face): Ask them to smile. If one side of their face droops or looks uneven, it could be a stroke.
▪ A (Arms): Ask them to raise both arms. If one drops involuntarily, it may be a sign of a stroke.
▪ S (Speech): Ask them to say a simple sentence. Slurred speech is another warning sign.
▪ T (Timing): If you notice these signs, call for help and get the person to the nearest hospital immediately.
What To Do When Someone Is Having A Stroke
▪ Call for help and get them to the nearest hospital.
▪ Note the time the symptoms started, as this will help healthcare workers determine the best treatment.
▪ Loosen tight clothing to help them breathe and lay them down comfortably.
▪ Do not give food, drinks, or medication, as they may have difficulty swallowing, which could worsen the problem.
How To Live Healthier After A Stroke
▪ Eat healthy: Consume plenty of fruits and vegetables. Brown rice, legumes, beans, lean meat, and low-fat dairy products are good options. Consult a dietitian for a proper meal plan.
▪ Take prescribed medications consistently.
▪ Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.
▪ Manage high blood pressure by taking medications if you have hypertension.
▪ Control blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.
▪ Stay active: Light exercise and physiotherapy can help improve movement in the affected body parts.
▪ Maintain a healthy weight: A Body Mass Index (BMI) of less than 25 is ideal.
▪ Take care of your mental well-being: Engage in activities that make you happy and avoid excessive stress.
Diagnosis
In addition to recognizing symptoms, doctors use the following to confirm a stroke:
▪ Physical examination
▪ CT (Computed Tomography) scan
▪ MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
▪ Blood tests
▪ Carotid ultrasound (to check for blockages in neck arteries)
▪ Cerebral angiography (to get detailed images of brain blood vessels)
Management
Treatment depends on the type of stroke:
▪ Ischemic Stroke: Doctors give medications to dissolve blood clots and improve blood flow. In some cases, procedures to remove the clot or surgery to restore blood circulation may be necessary.
▪ Hemorrhagic Stroke: Treatment focuses on controlling bleeding and reducing pressure in the brain. Surgery may be required to repair damaged blood vessels. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect someone is having a stroke. Quick intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
Prognosis
Recovery from a stroke varies. Some people recover completely, while others may have long-term disabilities. Early treatment and rehabilitation improve the chances of recovery.
Complications
If not detected early or treated promptly, strokes can lead to serious complications, including:
▪ Paralysis or difficulty moving one side of the body
▪ Trouble speaking or swallowing
▪ Memory loss and cognitive difficulties
▪ Emotional problems
▪ Numbness
▪ Changes in behavior and self-care ability
Summing It All Up...
Stroke is a serious health condition that requires immediate medical attention. Understanding the risk factors, signs, and emergency response steps can help save lives. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and staying informed, we can reduce the impact of stroke on individuals and communities. Stroke awareness saves lives. Share this with your loved ones and stay informed for a healthier future.
Till next time,
Yours in Healthy Living.
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