WORLD STROKE DAY

Stroke  is a sudden interruption in blood supply to the brain. This simply means that, for some reasons, blood suddenly stops flowing into the brain as it should, depriving the brain of oxygen and nutrient. This could be caused by an abrupt blockage of arteries that channels blood to the brain or bleeding into brain tissue when a blood vessel bursts.

When this happens, the brain cells start to die within minutes.  A stroke is therefore, a medical emergency, which requires prompt treatment in other to minimize brain damage and potential complications. If you suspect someone around you is having a stroke, here is how to confirm.

*Tell the person to smile .If the face droops to one side, it is most likely a stroke.

*Try to raise both arms; if one arm drifts downwards or is unable to raise one arm, call for emergency.

*Dialogue with the person. If you notice a slur in the speech, a stroke might be on its way.

*Ask the person basic questions; Stroke patients usually encounter confusions and  difficulty remembering and understanding speech.

*Hold up fingers and ask the patient to count. Blurred vision, doubled vision or blackened vision are signs of stroke.

*Try to make the person work a short distance. Sudden dizziness, loss of balance and loss of coordination depicts a stroke attack.

If you observe any of the above signs, please call for emergency immediately. Engage the person in a calm and reassuring conversation to keep the brain cells active and the patient conscious. Make sure they are breathing properly and keep them warm. Do not give them anything to  eat or drink and observe conditions to report to medical personnel when they arrive.

Stroke is avoidable, as well as many other conditions that could lead to medical emergencies. Finally, to prevent stroke, eat healthy, exercise daily, monitor your blood pressure and sugar level, and avoid excessive smoking and drinking. El-Rapha hospital and Diagnostics cares about you and your health. Book for and appointment to see a doctor today, take preventive measures and avoid Stroke.