Recognizing them early can save lives and prevent serious damage.
✍🏽 WHAT IS A STROKE?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts.
When brain cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients, they begin to die, leading to the loss of brain function.
The longer the brain goes without blood flow, the more damage occurs.
✍🏽 OKAY.. HOW DOES IT HAPPEN?
– The most common type, caused by a blockage or blood clot in a vessel supplying the brain (ischemic)
– Another caused by a burst blood vessel, leading to bleeding in or around the brain (hemorrhagic)
– There is “mini-stroke, that cause temporary blockagrs that result in stroke-like symptoms. They don’t cause permanent damage but are serious warnings of future stroke risk.
✍🏽 THEN WHAT CAUSES STROKE?
– High Blood Pressure is a top cause, as it weakens blood vessels over time.
– Diabetes increases the risk of stroke by affecting blood vessels and circulation.
– High Cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, narrowing them and increasing clot risk.
– Smoking damages blood vessels and makes the blood more likely to clot.
– Heart Disease like atrial fibrillation can cause blood clots that travel to the brain.
– Obesity and Sedentary Lifestyle will increase the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
✍🏽 LEARN TO RECOGNIZE THE WARNING SIGNS OF STROKE
🩸Sudden Numbness or Weakness
Especially on one side of the bod, in the face, arm, or leg. If you feel a heavy or “asleep” sensation, like you can’t lift or hold something, it’s a major red flag.
🩸Confusion or Trouble Speaking
A stroke can make it hard to talk or understand others. Look for slurred speech, trouble finding words, or unusual confusion. If someone suddenly seems disoriented or unable to communicate clearly, don’t ignore it.
🩸Vision Problems
Blurred, double vision, or sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes are often warning signs. Some describe it as a dark curtain coming down or seeing blind spots. Any sudden vision change should be taken seriously.
Dizziness or Trouble Walking
Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty walking without support can signal a stroke. It might feel like the room is spinning or you’re losing control over movement.
🩸 Severe Headache
An intense, sudden headache often described as “the worst headache of my life” could be a sign of a brain bleed (hemorrhagic stroke). If it’s paired with nausea, confusion, or dizziness, get medical help immediately.
🩸Difficulty Swallowing
This can make eating or drinking difficult, leading to choking or coughing. Weakening of the muscles that control swallowing is a concerning stroke symptom.
✍🏽 USE THE “FAST” TEST TO ACT QUICKLY
Face
Ask them to smile. Does one side of their face droop?
Arms
Ask them to raise both arms. Does one drift down?
Speech
Ask them to repeat a sentence. Is it slurred or hard to understand?
Time
If you see any of these signs, act fast and call emergency services.
Time is critical.
Strokes are medical emergencies where every minute counts. The faster a stroke is treated, the better the chances for recovery.
Stay informed and spread awareness by following me @OGreat6
– written by Pharm. Greatman