A stroke can be a severe and life-threatening event, and it’s essential to recognize and act on its warning signs.

Strokes can happen to anyone, regardless of age or gender, and knowing the signs can help you or a loved one receive timely medical attention and potentially save a life.

What is a stroke?

A stroke occurs when there is a disruption in the blood flow to a part of the brain. This can happen in two ways:.

• An ischemic stroke, which is caused by a blocked blood vessel in the brain
• A hemorrhagic stroke, which is caused by a blood vessel in the brain bursting and causing bleeding

Both types of strokes can cause severe damage to the brain, and the effects of a stroke can be long-lasting or even permanent.

What are the warning signs of a stroke?

Strokes can happen suddenly and without warning, but there are warning signs that you can look out for. The key to recognizing a stroke is to act FAST:.

• Face: Look for drooping or weakness on one side of the face.
• Arm: Check if one arm is weaker than the other or if the person is unable to raise both arms.
• Speech: Listen to the person’s speech. Is it slurred or difficult to understand?
• Time: If you notice any of these signs, call 911 immediately. Time is critical when it comes to treating a stroke, and every minute counts.

In addition to these FAST signs, other symptoms of a stroke can include:.

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion or trouble understanding speech
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or trouble walking
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Call 911 immediately and seek medical attention.

What are the risk factors for stroke?

There are several risk factors that can increase your chances of having a stroke. Some of these risk factors are modifiable, meaning you can take steps to reduce your risk, while others are not modifiable.

Modifiable Risk Factors:

High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is the most significant risk factor for stroke. Having high blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the brain, making them more susceptible to a stroke.

Smoking: Smoking can damage blood vessels and increase your risk of a stroke. It’s never too late to quit smoking, and doing so can reduce your risk of stroke and other health problems.

Physical Inactivity: Not getting enough exercise can increase your risk of stroke, as well as other health problems. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

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Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of stroke, as well as other health problems. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can reduce your risk.

High Cholesterol: High levels of cholesterol can clog arteries and increase your risk of stroke. Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help keep cholesterol levels in check.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:

Age: Your risk of stroke increases as you age, with most strokes occurring in people over age 65.

Gender: Men are more likely to have a stroke than women, but women are more likely to die from a stroke.

Family History: If someone in your immediate family has had a stroke, you may be at a higher risk.

Race: African Americans and Hispanics are at a higher risk of stroke than other groups.

How can strokes be prevented?

While some risk factors for stroke are not modifiable, there are still steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include:.

• Managing your blood pressure
• Quitting smoking
• Getting regular exercise
• Eating a healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fats
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Getting enough sleep
• Managing stress

If you have any medical conditions that increase your risk of stroke, such as atrial fibrillation or diabetes, it’s essential to work with your doctor to manage those conditions effectively.

The bottom line

A stroke can be a severe and life-threatening event, but recognizing the warning signs and acting FAST can help save lives and reduce the likelihood of long-term disabilities.

Taking steps to reduce your risk of stroke, such as managing your blood pressure, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight, can also help protect your health.