When the blood supply is cut off to the brain, a stroke occurs. A blood clot, or an artery blockage can cause a stroke. The brain cells can die in minutes if they don’t receive the oxygen that they need. It can also affect your mood, how you move and think. It’s crucial to act immediately if you recognize the symptoms. It can prevent serious strokes and help to reduce permanent damage.
A blood clot is responsible for 80% of all strokes. It is known as an ischemic attack. In 20% of cases, the stroke is caused by a damaged vessel. Haemorrhagic is the term used to describe this type of stroke. Hemorrhagic bleeding can cause more serious symptoms and even be fatal.
Learn more about stroke types here. Everyone is affected differently by stroke. You may experience short-term issues such as numbness or weakness, and longer-term disabilities such as memory loss. Some people become dependent on others for help. The outcome depends on the location of the stroke in your brain, its severity and health history.
You can reduce your stroke risk by being physically active, following a healthy eating plan, quitting smoking, and drinking less alcohol. It helps you to maintain a healthy weight, manage your cholesterol and blood pressure, and prevent high blood sugar, which can increase the risk of a stroke.
It is vital that you or anyone else who has stroke symptoms call 999 immediately and get to the hospital. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of recovering. It is important to try and remember the time when your symptoms began so you can inform your doctor about the TIA. It can help your doctor decide which medicine to prescribe.
The first sign of stroke is often a weakening or numbing of one side of the body or arm. You should also be on the lookout for other symptoms such as sudden dizziness and difficulty speaking clearly. Ask your doctor about your stroke risk, especially if there is a history in your family.
Some groups are more at risk of having a stroke than others. Some of these groups include the elderly (two thirds of strokes occur in people over 60), those with heart disease, high blood pressure or other medical conditions and those who have suffered a stroke or heart attacks before. Learn more about how you can reduce your stroke risk here. You can reduce your risk of stroke by following a low-fat, balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables (5 a Day) and wholegrains. Limit your salt intake and drink lots of water.
© 2018 All rights reserved | CLINICALL GROUP ACN: 105633163