You can take some simple steps to reduce your risk of stroke. Its important to know your stroke risk factors and follow your healthcare providers guidance on healthy lifestyle strategies. If youve already had a stroke, these measures may help prevent another one.

There are two main types of stroke:

Ischemic stroke (which results from a blood clot in the brain) occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off or reduced. This prevents brain tissue from receiving oxygen and nutrients, hence the name ischemia, and brain cells begin to die within minutes.

The other type is hemorrhagic stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures, causing bleeding. The blood puts pressure on brain cells and damages them.

Some patients may experience a temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain, known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA). This type of stroke does not cause any lasting symptoms.

Symptoms:

Difficulty speaking and understanding others: A person having a stroke may lose consciousness, slur their speech, or not understand what is being said to them.

Numbness, weakness, or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg: These symptoms often appear on only one side of the body. If the person raises both arms above their head, and one arm begins to droop, this may indicate a stroke. Drooping of one side of the mouth when smiling can also be a sign of a stroke.

Vision problems in one or both eyes: The person may experience sudden blurred or dim vision in one or both eyes. They may also see double.

Headache: A stroke may be accompanied by a sudden, severe headache. This headache may be accompanied by vomiting, dizziness, and altered mental status.

Difficulty walking: A person having a stroke may stumble, lose their balance, or have difficulty controlling their movements.

There are many simple steps to prevent the risk of stroke, including:

Controlling high blood pressure

Reducing cholesterol and saturated fat intake

Quitting smoking

Managing diabetes

Maintaining a healthy weight

Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables

Exercising regularly

Treating obstructive sleep apnea

If you experience any stroke symptoms (difficulty moving an arm, speaking, walking, numbness, or paralysis in part of the face), dont hesitate to visit our Neurology Department at the International Medical Center for emergency medical care. Getting emergency medical help quickly can reduce brain damage and other stroke complications. Every minute counts. Even if you think youve experienced a transient ischemic attack (TIA), its impossible to tell if youre having a stroke or a TIA based on symptoms alone.