Warning Signs, Ways To Prevent Brain Attack

World Stroke Day is commemorated on Oct. 29 every year to bring awareness about stroke and ways to reduce the burden of stroke.

A stroke or a brain attack is a critical medical condition that happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced. This can result in severe brain cell damage as restricted blood supply prevents brain tissue from getting adequate oxygen and nutrients.

Here are some symptoms of stroke that will help you identify the conditions of stroke and get help at the earliest:

• Numbness or weakness of body parts especially on one side of the face, arm, or leg. When trying to raise both arms overhead at the same time, if one arm drops, you may want to seek emergency help as it can be a sign of stroke
• Trouble speaking or understanding speech
• Blurred vision in one or both eyes
• Difficulty in walking or losing balance can be another sign
• Sudden severe headache which may be accompanied by vomiting, or dizziness with no known cause

Medics believe that time is a critical factor in helping patients who are identified with symptoms of a stroke. People are advised to call 911 as soon as they spot signs of face drooping, arm weakness, and speech difficulty in patients.

Stroke can be prevented by following a healthy lifestyle and keeping a check on underlying health conditions like cholesterol and blood pressure.

Here are some simple ways to prevent stroke:

Choose healthy food: Taking food that is low in saturated fats, trans fat, and high in fiber can help control cholesterol while limiting salt intake can reduce blood pressure levels.

Have regular physical activity: Regular physical activity including aerobic exercise and brisk walking helps to reduce cholesterol and maintain the blood pressure level.

Maintain a healthy weight: Obese people are at a higher risk of getting a stroke so maintaining a healthy weight is crucial in preventing stroke.

Limit alcohol intake and quit smoking: Drinking too much alcohol can increase blood pressure and smoking can increase the risk of stroke.