Stroke Definition
Blood contains oxygen and important nutrients for your brain cells, when brain cells do not get enough oxygen or nutrients, they cannot survive. A stroke can occur when blood stops moving through the artery because it is blocked by a blood clot or plaque (ischaemic stroke) or because the artery breaks or bursts (haemorrhagic stroke).
Stroke Signs
The F.A.S.T. test is recommended by the Stroke Foundation as an easy way to remember the most
common signs of stroke:
- Face; Check their face. Has their mouth drooped?
- Arms; Can they lift both arms?
- Speech; Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
- Time; Time is critical. If you see any of these signs call 000 straight away.
Stroke Risk Factors
Most strokes are preventable because they are associated with lifestyle-related risk factors. There are some risk factors for stroke that you cannot do anything about, such as: family history, age, gender (sex) and ethnic background. However, if you have any of these risk factors, improving your lifestyle is even more important to reduce your risk of having a stroke.
Health Tips
- Increase physical activity and maintain a healthy weight
- Limit saturated fats, salt, and sugar intake
- Look at ways to reduce stress levels
- Quit smoking; smoking doubles your risk of stroke