World Stroke Day is observed on October 29 to underscore the serious nature and high rates of stroke, raise awareness of the prevention and treatment of the condition, and ensure better care and support for survivors. A stroke occurs when blood stops flowing to part of the brain. Cut off from their supply of oxygen; brain cells begin dying within minutes. Sometimes the damage is fatal. People often ignore the signs of stroke.
The main symptoms of stroke can be remembered with the word F.A.S.T
Face – the face may have dropped on one side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have dropped.
Arms – the person with suspected stroke may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in one arm.
Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake.
Time –Time is of the essence.
If you see any of these signs or symptoms, rush to a hospital equipped to treat strokes.
More important is to start taking steps today to avoid stroke, before a stroke has the chance to strike. A risk factor is a condition or behaviour that increases the risk of getting a disease. Factors such as hereditary, gender, age cannot be controlled. However, many steps can be taken to reduce the risk of stroke.
Steps to prevent stroke
Know and control your blood pressure.
High blood pressure is a significant factor in increasing stroke risk if it is not controlled. Get blood pressure checked regularly.
Manage weight
Obesity raises the odds of having a stroke.
Know and control your cholesterol levels
Excess Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) can cause cholesterol to build up in blood vessels, narrowing the blood vessels, leading to both heart attack and stroke. Manage Cholesterol through food diet and medication if advised by a doctor
Get regular physical activity
Exercise helps in losing weight and lowering blood pressure. It also reduces the risk of stroke. Make time each day for exercise- be its a brisk walk for just 30 minutes each day or any other favourite physical activity that you enjoy.
Reduce alcohol intake
Intake of more than two drinks of alcohol per day increases the risk of a stroke
Heart Disorders
Heart disorders can result in blood clots that may break loose and block vessels in or leading to the brain. Atrial fibrillation carries almost a high risk of stroke and should be taken seriously.
Control Diabetes
High blood sugar damages the blood vessels making clots more likely to form. Further, if blood glucose levels are high at the time of a stroke, then brain damage is usually more severe and extensive. Treating diabetes can delay the start of complications that increase the risk of stroke.
Quit smoking
Smoking thickens the blood and increases the amount of plaque build-up in the arteries.
The article has been authored by Dr.Anil Venkatachalam, Consultant Neurologist at K J Somaiya Hospital, Super Specialty Centre
