stroke understanding
Stroke is a condition in which the blood supply to any part of the brain stops. This problem arises due to blockage or bursting of blood vessels. Nowadays, this condition is becoming serious due to many lifestyle related problems. Currently, it has become a leading cause of death and long-term disability globally. According to health experts, high blood pressure or hypertension is an important modifiable risk factor for stroke. If you make a habit of controlling blood pressure, this problem can be avoided to a great extent.
Relation between hypertension and stroke
Hypertension puts excessive pressure on the walls of the blood vessels, causing them to gradually get damaged. As a result, the risk of stroke increases.
damage to blood vessels
Persistent high blood pressure damages the inner lining of blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis and the accumulation of fatty plaques, which narrow the blood vessels.
ischemic stroke
Shrunken plaque and ruptured blood vessels can cause blood clots to form, cutting off blood supply to the brain.
hemorrhagic stroke
Chronic hypertension weakens small blood vessels, increasing the risk of bleeding and rupture in the brain.
Small-Vessel Disease
Hypertension can damage small arteries that supply blood to deeper structures of the brain, causing lacunar infarcts and loss of consciousness.
Other risk factors for stroke
Risk factors for stroke can be divided into two categories: modifiable and nonmodifiable.
modifiable risk factors
Diabetes mellitus – High blood sugar damages blood vessels and promotes atherosclerosis.
High cholesterol – Increased LDL cholesterol helps form plaque and narrow blood vessels.
Smoking and tobacco use – Consumption of these damages blood vessels, increases blood pressure and increases the chances of blood clots.
Obesity – Being overweight increases the risk of diabetes, hypertension and heart diseases.
Lack of physical activity – Lack of physical activity affects obesity, hypertension and metabolic health.
Unhealthy diet – Consuming saturated fats, highly processed foods and excess salt increases heart risk.
Heart disease – Atrial fibrillation can cause blood clots to form in the heart, which can travel to the brain.
Alcohol – Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of stroke and blood pressure.
nonmodifiable risk factors
These include family history, genetic factors, age, and previous stroke or transient ischemic attack. Although these factors cannot be changed, the overall risk can be reduced to a great extent by managing the risk factors mentioned above.
Early signs of stroke
Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke is extremely important, as prompt treatment can save brain tissue and improve the person's recovery.
Identification of signals from BEFAST
B – Balance – Sudden dizziness or difficulty walking.
E – Eyes – Sudden blurred vision or double vision.
F – Face – Drooping or numbness of one side of the face.
A – Arm – Sudden weakness or numbness.
S – Speech – Difficulty speaking or inability to speak clearly.
T – Time – Call emergency services immediately if any symptoms appear.
Lifestyle improvements
Manage diabetes and cholesterol.
Exercise regularly.
Control blood pressure.
Take a balanced diet.
Quit smoking.
Control weight.
have a good sleep.