STROKE: ACT F.A.S.T
What is a stroke?
A stroke is like a heart attack but to the brain, a brain attack. It occurs when the blood flow to an area of the brain is cut off. It can happen to anyone at anytime, but about 75 percent of stroke cases are reported in people above the age of 65. When the blood flow is cut, the brain cells are deprived of oxygen and begin to die. When the cells in the brain die, the abilities controlled by that particular area of the brain such as memory and muscle control are lost.
There are two types of strokes: Ischemic Stroke & Hemorrhagic Stroke
How does a stroke occur?
Ischemic Stroke: Clots block blood flow to the brain’s cells. These clots may form in the brain’s blood vessels, in blood vessels leading to the brain, or even blood vessels anywhere in the body and travel to the brain. This stroke can also happen when too much fatty deposits and cholesterol clogs the brain vessels.
Hemorrhagic Stroke: This occurs when a blood vessel breaks or ruptures in the brain. The blood seeps into the brain tissue causing damage to brain cells. High blood pressure and brain aneurysms are the most common causes of hemorrhagic stroke.
What are the symptoms of Stroke?
It is always a good idea to be aware of the symptoms of any disease it may save your life. Here are some of the symptoms of a stroke.
1.Weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg on one side of the body.
2.Loss of vision in one or both eyes.
3.Difficulty talking or understanding what others are saying.
4.Unexplained sudden severe headache.
5.Unstable walking coupled some other symptoms.
Recognizing the symptoms of stroke and calling for emergency help will decide how quickly help and treatment is received. The key to increasing the odds on a speedy and may be a full recovery from stroke is to try the F.A.S.T stroke test.
Use the F.A.S.T acronym to remember the warning signs of stroke:
Face – Does one side of the face droop when the person smiles?
Arms – Does one arm drift downward when asked to raise both arms?
Speech – Is their speech slurred or strange when asked to repeat a simple phrase?
Time – If you observe any of these signs, call emergency help immediately.
Strokes can be prevented if you recognize the early signs of stroke. The quicker the treatment is got to the person the more chances of a full recovery. You could also try to prevent the onset of a stroke by watching your blood pressure, stay healthy and lose the excess weight, keep active with some exercise, drink in moderation, quit smoking etc.