A stroke is a medical emergency where the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. It can happen to anyone at any age, but some people are at higher risk than others.

Men are more likely to have a stroke at a younger age than women, and they are more likely to die from a stroke than women.

What Causes a Stroke?

There are two main types of stroke:.

Ischemic Stroke

This is the most common type of stroke, caused by a blood clot that blocks a blood vessel in the brain.

This can happen when a clot forms in an artery that supplies blood to the brain, or when a clot breaks off from somewhere else in the body and travels to the brain. Ischemic stroke accounts for about 87% of all strokes.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

This type of stroke is caused by bleeding in or around the brain, usually due to a ruptured blood vessel. It can be caused by high blood pressure, abnormal blood vessels, or head trauma.

Hemorrhagic stroke accounts for about 13% of all strokes, but it is more deadly than ischemic stroke.

What Are the Symptoms of Stroke?

The symptoms of stroke can vary depending on which part of the brain is affected, how severe the damage is, and how quickly the blood flow is restored. Some of the most common symptoms of stroke include:.

Facial Weakness or Drooping

One side of the face may droop, and the person may not be able to smile or close their eye on that side.

Arm Weakness or Numbness

One arm may feel weak or numb, and the person may not be able to lift it or hold it up.

Speech Difficulty

The person may have trouble speaking or understanding speech. They may slur their words or use the wrong words.

Vision Problems

The person may suddenly lose vision in one or both eyes, or they may have blurred or double vision.

Balance Problems

The person may feel dizzy or have trouble walking, or they may lose their balance and fall.

Headache

The person may have a severe headache that comes on suddenly, often accompanied by neck stiffness, vomiting, or loss of consciousness.

Related Article Stroke in Men: Knowing the Signs

What Should You Do If You Think Someone Is Having a Stroke?

If you suspect that someone is having a stroke, it’s important to act fast. The sooner the person receives medical attention, the better their chances of recovery.

Call 911 immediately and tell the operator that you think the person is having a stroke. If possible, note the time when the symptoms first appeared, as this can be important information for the medical team.

Don’t wait for the symptoms to go away or try to drive the person to the hospital yourself. Stroke is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment, and every minute counts.

How Can You Prevent a Stroke?

While some risk factors for stroke, such as age, gender, and family history, are beyond your control, there are many things you can do to lower your risk:.

Manage Your Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is one of the biggest risk factors for stroke. If you have high blood pressure, work with your doctor to get it under control.

This may involve making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and losing weight, as well as taking medication if needed.

Quit Smoking

Smoking can damage your blood vessels and increase your risk of stroke. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about ways to quit.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a balanced diet that is low in saturated and trans fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help keep your heart healthy and lower your risk of stroke.

Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity can help lower your blood pressure, control your weight, and improve your overall health.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure and increase your risk of stroke. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation (no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men).

Manage Your Cholesterol

High cholesterol can contribute to the buildup of plaque in your arteries, which can increase your risk of stroke. Work with your doctor to manage your cholesterol levels through diet, exercise, and medication if needed.

Treat Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a heart rhythm disorder that can cause blood clots to form in the heart and travel to the brain, increasing the risk of stroke. If you have AFib, your doctor may prescribe medication to help reduce the risk of stroke.

Conclusion

A stroke can be a life-changing event, but recognizing the symptoms and seeking prompt medical attention can lower the risk of long-term damage. If you or someone you know experiences any of the symptoms of stroke, don’t wait.

Call 911 right away and get the medical help you need.