Introduction to stroke A stroke, also called a brain attack, occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked or when there is a bursting occurring in the brain’s blood vessels. In these ways, the brain could be partially damaged or die, causing lasting brain damage and long-term disability. In severe cases, death may occur.
The brain is the organ that manages our daily activities, preserves our memories, and develops thoughts, feelings, and verbal expression. The brain also regulates a variety of functions such as breathing, digestion, etc.
To function properly, your brain requires oxygen. Brain cells will start to die within a few minutes of a blockage in blood flow, as the brain cells are unable to receive oxygen. This results in a stroke.
Learning more about stroke is important as the sooner treatment is given, the more likely the damage could be minimized. It is important to remember the signs of stroke so that we could seek emergency help as soon as possible.
Types of stroke Ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke are the two forms of stroke. An ischemic stroke happens when the blood vessels to the brain are blocked by blood clots or other substances. Whereas a hemorrhagic stroke occurs when an artery in the brain leaks blood or ruptures.
Signs of stroke F.A.S.T. is an easy method for identifying stroke. Face: Are there any signs of face drooping on one side when the person smiles? Arm: Are there any signs of one arm lower when the person raises both arms?
Speech: Are there any signs of unclear speech from the person when he/she repeats what you say? Time: Act fast and call 999 and seek emergency help if you identify any of the signs.
How to prevent stroke?
Control your medical conditions such as controlling high blood pressure, and controlling diabetes. Moreover, if you have any of these conditions, seek treatment to help reduce your risk of stroke: high cholesterol, carotid artery disease, peripheral artery disease, atrial fibrillation (AFib), heart disease, sickle cell disease or obstructive sleep apnea,
Don’t smoke or quit smoking as cigarettes increase the risk of having a stroke.
Manage a healthy weight. Other stroke risk factors including high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes are all influenced by obesity. You can always calculate your body mass index (BMI) to know if you are within the healthy range of weight.
Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. A diet containing five or more daily servings of fruits or vegetables may reduce your risk of stroke.
Exercise. Exercise can enhance the general health of your blood vessels and heart as well as reduce your blood pressure and raise your level of HDL cholesterol. Additionally, it aids in stress reduction, diabetic management, and weight loss.
Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol raises your chances of high blood pressure, ischemic strokes, and hemorrhagic strokes.
Beware of illicit drugs. A transient ischemic attack (TIA) or a stroke has been linked to several street drugs, including cocaine and methamphetamine.
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