According to the latest statistics, the medical experts say that strokes are a leading cause of adult disability and the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. It is a “brain attack” that occurs when blood flow to a part of brain is interrupted. In this article we are going to talk about strokes, the most common warning signs and how to protect yourself. First, you should know that there are 2 major types of strokes: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes are more common and are caused by a narrowing or blocking of arteries to the brain, resulting in severely reduced blood flow. Hemorrhagic strokes are less common and are caused by bleeding in the brain.
Note: you should know that it’s extremely important to identify the warning signs of a stroke and get medical help as soon as possible to reduce the risk of serious damage to the brain. This can help lower the risk of death or disability and improve your chances of recovery. The medical experts say that the signs and symptoms may vary from one person to another depending on the type of stroke, the part of the brain affected and the extent of damage. But they all tend to begin suddenly.
STROKE WARNING SIGNS
- Talking with difficulty or talking vaguely
- Hard time walking and having no control of movements
- Numb face and limbs, usually on one side
OTHER SYMPTOMS OF STROKE
- Sight problems in one or both eyes
- Complete paralysis
- Sudden depression
NOW, THE NEXT THING IS THE ACRONYM FAST TO EXPLAIN EACH STEP.
- Face: Look at the entire Is your smile crooking? Is it saggy?
- Arms: Lift your arms or try. Do they fall down?
- Speech: Just say anything a few times. Can you talk properly?
- Time: Look for help ASAP!
A stroke strikes quickly and suddenly. That’s why it’s of vital importance to act promptly instead of waiting for things to get better.
Don’t attempt to drive in this condition – it’s very dangerous as you can lose consciousness. Call 911 instead.
Even if the symptoms start to fade away, it doesn’t mean that you no longer need help. These are known as sudden episodes or transient ischemic assaults (TIAs) and they increase the risk of a real stroke.
Strokes sometimes resemble migraines, which can be confusing. But, have in mind that a stroke occurs suddenly, whereas a migraine develops with time spans.
It’s also important to know migraine signs as they increase every stimulus. People describe migraines as patterns, like zigzag or flash colors/lights. On the other hand, TIAs begin with discomfort and blurred vision, impaired hearing and less mobility in limbs.
Even though a stroke can affect anyone, it’s most typical of people suffering from:
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Smokers
- 55 or older
- Heart issues, atrial fibrillation and blood problems
- Genetics
- Aesthetic injuries
- Migraines
In order to prevent a stroke, it’s important to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet which includes a lot of water, fruits and vegetables. Cutting out cigarettes and taking up regular exercise is also crucial.