World Stroke Day 2022: World Stroke Day is observed every year on 29 October to raise awareness about stroke and its prevention and treatment. The World Stroke Organization website – which says they are the only global body focused solely on stroke – has this to say about stroke: “Stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. Without blood, brain cells can be damaged or die. The effects of a stroke can be short-term and long-term, depending on which part of the brain is affected and how quickly it is treated. Stroke survivors may experience widespread disabilities, including difficulties with mobility and speech, as well as how they think and feel.”
It is important to recognize stroke early, as it can otherwise lead to long-term disability and even death. Dr. Sahil Kohli, Senior Consultant-Neurology, Max Hospital Gurugram, talks to us about early stroke symptoms, prevention and lifestyle changes needed to beat stroke.
World Stroke Day 2022: Early signs of stroke
Dr. Kohli suggests that the acronym FAST may be taken into account when trying to recognize and treat stroke. F stands for facial weakness, A for sudden arm weakness, S stands for sudden onset speech problem, and T stands for time, because timing is important. “One of the most important things to do is to reach the nearest stroke-ready center within 4.5 hours of the onset of stroke for definitive treatment,” says Dr. Kohli.
Also read: World Stroke Day 2022: Date, Theme, History, Significance and Significance
World Stroke Day 2022: Lifestyle changes to prevent stroke
Dr Kohli says that 80% of strokes can be avoided if we take care of our lifestyle. Here are some important things to keep in mind, as suggested by Dr. Sahil Kohli:
1) Blood pressure and high blood sugar need to be kept under control. If you are above 40, go for regular check-ups. If you have problems with BP and sugar, take prescribed medicines and follow a healthy lifestyle to keep them under control.
2) Quit smoking. Its as simple as that!
3) Alcohol should be consumed in moderation. Red wine is the better choice here.
4) Keep your weight under control and be mobile. 30 minutes of regular exercise in which you do moderate exercise like walking, cycling and aerobics are great for your health. Doing yoga at least five days a week can reduce the chances of stroke.
5) If you have already had a stroke, do not stop or stop any medication without consulting your neurologist.
World Stroke Day 2022: Unhealthy foods to be avoided
1) Saturated fat and trans fat can raise cholesterol levels and make you weak
2) A high sodium diet can raise blood pressure, which is dangerous. Start by reducing your salt intake to about half a teaspoon a day.
3) Since obesity is one of the reasons, be mindful of high-calorie diets that include burgers, cheese and ice cream.
4) A diet that includes five or more servings of fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of stroke.
5) Junk food and carbonated drinks are strict no! Processed foods contain a lot of salt while carbonated drinks such as colas, sodas and ketchup contain a lot of calories.