What is STROKE?
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is
interrupted or reduced, depriving the brain of oxygen and nutrients. This can cause damage
to the brain cells and lead to a range of symptoms, including:
- Weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Vision changes, such as blurred vision or loss of vision
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Severe headache
There are three main types of strokes:
- Ischemic stroke: This is the most common type of stroke, accounting for about 87% of all
strokes. It occurs when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked, reducing blood flow
to the brain. - Hemorrhagic stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures,
causing bleeding into the surrounding tissue. - Transient ischemic attack (TIA): This is a temporary blockage of a blood vessel in the
brain, often referred to as a “mini-stroke.”
If you suspect someone is having a stroke, it’s essential to act F.A.S.T. and call for
emergency medical services:
F – Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop?
A – Arm: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S – Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is their speech slurred or difficult
to understand?
T – Time: Time is of the essence. If the person shows any of these symptoms, call for
emergency medical services immediately.