Stroke is a serious disease that occurs when a blood vessel that carries vital oxygen and nutrients to the brain becomes blocked by a blood clot or ruptures. This causes cells in a specific part of the brain to die, leading to death or disability.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stroke is the second leading cause of death among people over 60 years of age and the fifth leading cause of death among people aged 15–59. Every year, more than 100,000 Ukrainians lose their lives due to stroke, a third of whom are under 65. The severe consequences of stroke burden not only the person suffering from the disease, but also family members and society as a whole.
There are several types of strokes:
Ischemic – 85% of all strokes – occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain becomes blocked.
Hemorrhagic – 15% of all cases – occurs when a weakened blood vessel ruptures, causing blood to leak into and compress surrounding brain tissue. This often occurs with uncontrolled high blood pressure.
The main symptoms of stroke that everyone should know:
- slurred speech or difficulty understanding words;
- facial asymmetry;
- dizziness, loss of balance;
- vision impairment – in one or both eyes;
- Weakness or numbness of the limbs, more often on one side.
These symptoms, by the first letters of the highlighted words, form the abbreviation BRAIN, which is easy to remember.
If you recognize at least one of the symptoms of a stroke, act clearly and quickly according to the following algorithm:
- immediately call the emergency medical team - call 103;
- tell the dispatcher about the characteristic symptoms of a stroke in a person;
- Allow the victim to be hospitalized in a specialized healthcare facility that is equipped with the necessary equipment and a multi-professional team.
Such actions will help reduce mortality and disability, and preserve the quality of human life.
According to WHO, more than 15 million people worldwide suffer a stroke each year. Of these, 5 million die and another 5 million become disabled or have a reduced quality of life. But the good news is that 80% of all strokes are preventable!
How to reduce the risk of stroke
– Uncontrolled hypertension is the main cause of stroke. So monitor your blood pressure levels – know your readings, keep a measurement diary, see your doctor in a timely manner and take medications as prescribed;
– Presence of diabetes mellitus also increases the risk of stroke. Since many people with diabetes are overweight, have high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, get your blood sugar and cholesterol levels under control – work with your doctor, get tested, and follow your treatment. Assess your risk for diabetes.
– People with existing cardiovascular disease – coronary heart disease, heart failure, heart rhythm disorders, etc. – have a higher risk of developing a stroke than people without these diseases. Keep your cardiovascular diseases under control;
– Quit using tobacco products.. The nicotine in cigarette smoke damages your heart and blood vessels, making you more susceptible to stroke. Learn about effective ways to quit smoking at https://stopsmoking.org.ua/;
– Be physically active. Get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week – brisk walking, water aerobics, tennis, cycling, swimming. Do muscle-strengthening exercises at least twice a week. But if you have a chronic condition, are overweight, or have been inactive in the past, be sure to talk to your doctor about the types and amounts of activity that are right for you;
– Give up drinking alcohol. Remember that there is no safe amount of alcohol. Alcohol consumption can cause high blood pressure and stroke;
– Choose healthy food. Eat 400-600 g of fresh vegetables and fruits per day. Limit your intake of foods high in saturated fats and trans fats – fast food, pastries, fried foods, smoked meats. Do not drink sugary drinks. Limit your salt intake to 1 tsp per day. For cardiovascular health, the most effective and balanced are the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and the Mediterranean diet. The DASH diet is designed specifically to reduce high blood pressure – the main risk factor for stroke. The DASH diet focuses on consuming heart-healthy foods that are naturally high in fiber, magnesium, potassium and calcium and low in sodium. Be sure to consult your doctor about your diet and any diet choices!
Be aware and responsible for your health – undergo the necessary examinations, adhere to the prescribed treatment. And remember, preventing a stroke is easier than treating it and overcoming its negative consequences! Follow the principles of a healthy lifestyle.
Time to choose health!
