Stroke is a term used to
describe damage to part of the brain. It occurs when
the arteries of the brain become "blocked"
or "burst", depriving the brain cells of
nutrients and oxygen.
In 2006, 1,603 deaths were due to stroke in Hong Kong, and 48.5% of them were in men.
What are
the common symptoms?
Symptoms of a stroke usually develop
suddenly and quickly without any warning signs. These include:
Sudden weakness, numbness and/or tingling of the face,
arm or leg
Sudden slurring or loss of speech
Sudden blurring of vision
Sudden onset of severe headache
Sudden unsteadiness or falls
These symptoms should be regarded
as an emergency. Delay in seeking medical attention can
significantly affect the outcomes and reduce the chances
of recovery.
People with hypertension, smokers and alcoholics are those at high risk of stroke.
What are the complications?
The effects of a stroke
depend on which part of the brain and to what extent
the brain has been damaged. Stroke can be fatal, or
causes permanent disability such as paralysis.
How
can I prevent it?
You can lower your risk of
having a stroke by keeping your heart and blood vessels
healthy by:
No smoking.
Control your blood pressure with regular checking
every couple of years at least.
Eat a healthy and low fat diet, and reduce your
salt intake.
Moderate your alcohol intake.
Do suitable exercise regularly.
Control your weight.
Get adequate rest and avoid stress.
What
is the treatment?
Stroke can be treated by
medication/surgery along with lifestyle changes and
a range of therapies from experts such as nurses,
physiotherapist, speech therapist and occupational
therapist. The choice of an appropriate treatment
is based on the severity of the symptoms, the extent
to which they affect the patient's life, and the presence
of any other medical conditions.
How can I help myself?
To yield satisfactory results
from the rehabilitation program after a stroke, it
is important to comply with the instructions and visit
your doctor and the therapists regularly and have
your condition monitored. You have to take the medication
as prescribed. Never stop taking them on your own.
If you have any suspicions,
you should seek medical advice.
Stroke can be fatal, or causes permanent disability such as paralysis.
Maintain a healthy diet, regular exercise, avoid smoking and reduce alcohol intake can lower the risk of stroke.
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