Don't ignore some changes or symptoms in your body. Some things can be early signs of a stroke. If you experience these symptoms, it is better to consult a doctor immediately.

Sudden facial weakness or collapse:
This is one of the most common symptoms of a stroke. You may notice that part of your face suddenly droops or becomes numb on one side. This is clearly visible when you ask someone to smile. If the smile tilts to one side, it can be a warning sign. You may also notice that the cheeks or mouth droop to one side.

Sudden weakness or numbness in an arm or leg:
Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, especially in an arm or leg, could be a sign of a stroke. For example, you may feel your arm suddenly go weak when you try to grab an object or your leg go weak when you lift it. Sometimes this weakness or numbness doesn't come on gradually, but comes on suddenly.

Sudden Difficulty Speaking or Understanding:
If you suddenly have difficulty speaking or understanding what others are saying, this could be a sign of a stroke. You may stutter, have trouble choosing words, or be unable to understand what others are saying. For example, when you try to say a word you know, it may not come out. Or you may have difficulty understanding a simple question. This is a condition called "aphasia," which occurs when the language centers of the brain are affected.
Sudden Confusion or Blurred Vision:
Sudden confusion or blurred vision could be a sign of a stroke. You may be confused, not knowing where you are or what is happening. You may suddenly have blurred vision or double vision in one or both eyes. For example, you may suddenly notice that the text is blurry when you read a book, or that the picture is blurry when you look at it.

Sudden, severe headache:
A sudden, severe headache that comes on suddenly and for no apparent reason may be a sign of a stroke. It may feel like a lightning strike or be "the worst headache you've ever had in your life." This headache may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or a stiff neck. It may be due to bleeding in the brain.

If you experience any of the above symptoms (in yourself or someone else), it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Time is of the essence for the brain. If treatment is given within 3 to 4.5 hours of the onset of stroke symptoms, the chances of recovery are greater. This period is called the "Golden Hour" or "Golden Period". Rush to the nearest hospital. It is important to see a doctor even if the symptoms disappear. This is because some strokes are called "Transient Ischemic Attacks" (TIA), which, although temporary, are a warning sign that a major stroke may occur in the future.

Main causes and risk factors for stroke:
High blood pressure: This is the most important risk factor for stroke. Keeping blood pressure under control can help prevent stroke.

Diabetes: Uncontrolled sugar levels can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of stroke.

Heart diseases: Irregular heartbeat (Atrial Fibrillation) or other heart problems can cause blood clots and cause stroke.

Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption: These can constrict blood vessels, increase blood pressure, and increase the risk of stroke.

Stress: Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems, increasing the risk of stroke.
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Sowmiya Sriram

02/07/2025 06:50 PM