Stroke

What is it?
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This can cause brain cells to die within minutes. There are two main types of stroke:

• Ischemic Stroke: Caused by a blockage (such as a blood clot) in a blood vessel supplying the brain.
• Hemorrhagic Stroke: Caused by a rupture or leaking of a blood vessel in the brain.

What can I do?

1. Know the Signs and Act FAST: Learn to recognise the signs of a stroke using the FAST acronym:

• Face drooping: Does one side of the face droop or feel numb?
• Arm weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms.
• Speech difficulty: Is speech slurred or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
• Time to call emergency services: If you observe any of these signs, call emergency services immediately.

1. Manage Blood Pressure: High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke. Monitor your blood pressure regularly and take steps to keep it under control through lifestyle changes and medications if necessary.
2. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium to reduce the risk of stroke.
3. Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, to maintain a healthy weight and lower the risk of stroke.
4. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption increase the risk of stroke. Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake to reduce your risk.

Common Medical Treatments

1. Medications: Depending on the type of stroke, medications may include clot-busting drugs (thrombolytics) for ischemic strokes or medications to reduce bleeding and lower blood pressure for hemorrhagic strokes.
2. Surgery or Procedures: In some cases, procedures such as carotid endarterectomy (to remove plaque from carotid arteries) or endovascular procedures (to remove clots or repair blood vessels) may be recommended.
3. Rehabilitation: Stroke rehabilitation focuses on improving functional abilities, such as movement, speech, and cognitive skills, through physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.
4. Lifestyle Changes: Your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle modifications to manage risk factors, such as dietary changes, physical activity, and smoking cessation programs.
5. Secondary Stroke Prevention: After a stroke, medications to prevent further strokes (such as antiplatelet drugs or anticoagulants) and management of underlying conditions (such as diabetes or heart disease) are essential.

When to Consult Your Doctor

It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else experiences symptoms of a stroke. Early treatment can minimise damage to the brain and improve outcomes. Additionally, consult your doctor if you have risk factors for stroke or if you are concerned about your risk.

Remember

Stroke is a medical emergency that requires prompt action. Knowing the signs of stroke, managing risk factors, and seeking timely medical care are essential for reducing the risk of stroke and improving outcomes. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and following medical advice, you can lower your risk of stroke and protect your brain health.