World Stroke Day 2024

World stroke day is observed on October 29 each year to raise awareness about strokes and how to prevent them.  A stroke happens when the blood flow to the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. This year’s theme, #Greater Than Stroke, focuses on taking action to reduce stroke risks.

Why is world stroke day important?

1. Raise Awareness: It helps people understand what a stroke is, its warning signs, and when to get medical helps.

2. Promote prevention: Encourages healthy habits like eating well, staying active, and getting regular check-ups to reduce stroke risk.

3. Timely Treatment: Highlights the importance of getting treatment quickly to lessen the long-term effects of a stroke.

Types of Stroke:

1. Transient ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a “mini-stroke”, TIA is a brief blockage of blood to the brain that doesn’t cause lasting damage. It usually lasts only a few minutes.

2. Ischemic stroke: This is the most common type and happens when a blood vessel to the brain is blocked reducing blood flow.

3. Hemorrhagic stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. Leading to bleeding inside the brain.

Stroke symptoms:

If you suspect someone is having a stroke, note the time the symptoms start because fast treatment in important. common signs include:

• Difficulty speaking: The person may slur their words or have trouble understanding others.

• Weakness or numbness: Usually affects one side of the body, including the face, arm or leg.

• vision problems: Sudden difficulty seeing in one or both eyes.

• Severe headache: A sudden, intense headache might come with dizziness or vomiting.

• Trouble walking: The person may lose balance or coordination.

How to observe World stroke day

1. Focus on a healthy lifestyle: Ten years ago, one in six people had a stroke. In 2021, The changed to one in four, meaning the risk has grown. It’s important to take action to protect yourself. Start by reducing alcohol nd smoking, eating healthier foods, and exercising regularly.

2. Get regular checkups: Even if you live a healthy lifestyle, it’s a good idea to see your doctor regularly. Have your cholesterol  and blood pressure checked or monitor them at home. Finding problems early can help prevent serious health issues.

3. Teach your Loved ones: Share the importance of stroke prevention with your family and friends. Teach them how to recognize a stroke by using the FAST method.

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