National Stroke Week (28 October to 3 November) is a reminder that 80% of strokes are preventable and quick action can reduce long-term disability.
What is a stroke?
When a blood vessel in the brain gets blocked (ischaemic stroke) or bursts (haemorrhagic stroke), it affects the oxygen supply to your body’s control centre. Brain cells begin to die, and the body function controlled by those cells is affected. This can range from speech and vision issues to problems with movement and thinking, as well as paralysis and loss of life.
Every second counts
A common belief is that stroke always equals significant disability, but timely medical help can make a big difference.
Think F-A-S-T!
The acronym F-A-S-T is an easy way to remember the common signs of a stroke and take action.
- Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
- Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- Time: If you observe any of these signs, call emergency services immediately.
It’s important to know that there are other sudden-onset signs to watch out for.
- Numbness or weakness in the leg, especially on one side of the body.
- Confusion or trouble understanding speech.
- Trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
- Difficulty walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.
- Severe headache with no known cause.
Reduce your risk
Although age is a factor – especially for those over 55 – lifestyle choices account for 80% of strokes. High cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, being overweight, smoking, and excessive drinking all increase your risk.
Reference
Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa
