
29/10/2024
Let's all be informed about STROKE!!
On this World Stroke Awareness Day I would like everyone to know the essentials of Stroke. Every Second Counts and small steps may save life!!
We get multiple patients with stroke in STNM each day. And we are not always successful in the treatment. This Message to the society may help greatly in reducing the effects of Storke in the community
A stroke, also known as a brain attack, occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving the brain of oxygen and nutrients.
*Types of Stroke:*
1. Ischemic Stroke (85%): Blood clot blocks blood flow to the brain.
2. Hemorrhagic Stroke (15%): Blood vessel ruptures, causing bleeding in the brain.
3. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA or "mini-stroke"): Temporary blockage, resolving within 24 hours.
*Effects of Stroke:*
1. Brain damage
2. Weakness or paralysis
3. Speech and language difficulties
4. Vision loss
5. Cognitive impairment
6. Emotional changes
*Key Statistics:*
1. 1 in 4 adults will have a stroke.
2. Every 40 seconds, someone in the US has a stroke.
3. Stroke is the 5th leading cause of death and 1st leading cause of disability.
The main risk factors for Stroke are
1. High blood pressure.
2. Obesity.
3. Physical inactivity.
4. Poor diet.
5. Smoking.
People with such risk factors have to be careful and get regular medical checkups. SMOKING IS TO BE AVIODED
Here are some simple steps that one can take when someone appears to have Stroke
*Act F.A.S.T., Save a Life!!*
A stroke can happen to anyone, at any time. Know the signs, act fast, and save a life.
*Recognize the Signs:*
F - Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop?
A - Arm: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S - Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech slurred or difficult to understand?
T - Time: Time is of the essence. Call for emergency medical services immediately if you observe any of these signs.
*Additional Signs:*
- Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg
- Sudden confusion or trouble speaking
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden severe headache
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance
*Take Action:*
1. Call your local emergency number immediately.
2. Provide the location and any relevant information.
3. Stay with the person until medical help arrives.
*Prevention is Key:*
1. Manage blood pressure.
2. Control diabetes.
3. Exercise regularly.
4. Eat a healthy diet.
5. Quit smoking.
*Every Minute Counts*
Prompt medical treatment can save lives and reduce disability. Spread awareness, and let's fight stroke together!
*Share This Message*
Help create a stroke-aware community. Share this message with friends, family, and social networks.