World Stroke Day is observed every year on Oct. 29.The global awareness day aims to improve public understanding of stroke, focusing on prevention, treatment, recovery and the long-term impact the condition can have on people’s lives.A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical condition that occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted or when bleeding occurs in or around the brain. The latter is known as a hemorrhagic stroke.

Symptoms of a stroke

Symptoms of a stroke may include:

• Aphasia (difficulty speaking or complete loss of speech)
• Blurred or double vision (diplopia)
• Confusion or agitation
• Coma
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Sudden, severe headache
• Loss of muscle control on one side of the face
• Loss of coordination or clumsiness (ataxia)
• Memory loss (amnesia)
• Mood swings or sudden personality changes
• Nausea and vomiting
• Neck stiffness
• Loss of consciousness or fainting
• Seizures
• Slurred or unclear speech (dysarthria)
• Sudden changes in or loss of the senses, including vision, hearing, smell, taste and touch
• Weakness or paralysis affecting one side of the face or body

A stroke is a medical emergency

If you suspect that someone is having a stroke, remember FAST:

• F – Face: Ask the person to smile and check for drooping on one or both sides of the face.
• A – Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. One arm may droop or fall if they are having a stroke.
• S – Speech: Check whether the person has slurred speech or difficulty finding the right words.
• T – Time: Time is critical. Call for emergency medical help immediately. If possible, note the time the symptoms began, as this information can help healthcare professionals determine the most appropriate treatment.

Main risk factors for stroke

Stroke risk factors can be divided into non-modifiable and modifiable factors.
Non-modifiable risk factors include age, sex, and a family history of stroke. Men may also face a higher risk in some age groups.
Modifiable risk factors include high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, obesity and insulin resistance.How can a stroke be prevented?

The risk of stroke can be reduced through lifestyle changes and appropriate medical care. These include:

• Managing blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol levels
• Taking care of your heart
• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
• Quitting smoking
• Exercising regularly and staying physically active
• Avoiding illicit drugs and limiting or avoiding alcohol
• Ensuring that any heart condition is diagnosed and treated
• It is also important to follow medical advice and take prescribed medicines regularly
• Recognising the warning signs and seeking emergency medical help without delay can make a critical difference in the outcome of a stroke