Stroke is the second leading cause of death for people over 60 years of age and the fifth leading cause of death for people aged 15 to 59. In Ukraine, more than 145,000 people are hospitalized with strokes each year. Last year alone, more than 123,000 patients were hospitalized with ischemic stroke, and hemorrhagic stroke was diagnosed in more than 21,000 cases.
What is a stroke?
This is a disease that occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain becomes blocked by a blood clot or ruptures, causing brain cells to die. There are two types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
In honor of World Stroke Day on October 29, the Public Health Center reminds you of the main signs of stroke, what to do if you suspect a stroke, and how to prevent it. Join in spreading information about stroke — it will help save lives!
Stroke risk factors
The risk of stroke increases in the presence of factors such as unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, tobacco and alcohol use, elevated blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose levels, as well as excess body weight and obesity.
Signs of a stroke:
The main symptoms of a stroke are easy to remember with an acronym BRAIN:
- M — speech: it becomes indistinct or the person has difficulty understanding what you are saying;
- O — face: facial asymmetry or a «crooked» smile occurs;
- C — dizziness: loss of balance, impaired coordination, sharp headache (as if from a blow);
- Oh - eyes: vision impairment in one or both eyes;
- K — limbs: Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, usually on one side, inability to lift or shake the arm.
To recognize a stroke, ask the person:
- to smile;
- say a simple sentence, such as "My name is", "I am going to work", etc.;
- raise one or both hands;
- stick out the tongue (in a stroke the tongue is crooked or turned).
If at least one symptom is present:
- immediately call 103 or 112 and clearly explain the person's symptoms and condition;
- do not let the victim eat or drink! Due to impaired swallowing functions, food may enter the respiratory tract;
- allow hospitalization in a specialized healthcare facility.
It is crucial to get professional help within four hours of the onset of stroke symptoms. The sooner you get help, the less likely it is to have complications and die.
How can you reduce the risk of stroke?
Monitor your blood pressure levels
Uncontrolled hypertension is the leading cause of stroke. Know your blood pressure, keep a blood pressure diary, and take your prescribed medications regularly.
Control your blood sugar and cholesterol levels
Having diabetes increases your risk of stroke, and high cholesterol can contribute to blocked arteries, especially those that supply blood to the brain. So work with your doctor and stick to your prescribed treatment.
Eat a healthy diet.
A healthy diet is an effective way to prevent stroke. Eat 400–600 g (4–5 servings) of seasonal vegetables and fruits per day; sea fish as a source of omega-3 fatty acids, lean meat and legumes; nuts and seeds. Limit your intake of foods high in saturated and trans fats: fast food, pastries, fried foods, smoked meats. Reduce your salt intake: it is recommended to consume no more than 5 grams of salt per day (about 1 teaspoon). Be sure to consult your doctor about your diet.
Be physically active
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. This could be brisk walking, cycling, water aerobics, or walking. But be sure to talk to your doctor or physical therapist about what activity is right for you!
Quit using tobacco products.
Smoking significantly increases the risk of stroke because it promotes the formation of blood clots that can block the lumen of a blood vessel in the brain. Quitting smoking is an important step you can take to reduce your risk of stroke. We encourage all smokers to seek professional support or learn about effective ways to quit smoking on the website https://stopsmoking.org.ua/
Give up alcohol.
Remember that there is no safe amount of alcohol. Drinking alcohol can increase your blood pressure and increase your risk of stroke.
Be aware and responsible for your health! Consult your family doctor in a timely manner, undergo the necessary examinations and adhere to the appointments. Remember that preventing a stroke is easier than overcoming its negative consequences.