All you need to know about stroke and World Stroke Day

World Stroke Day, commemorated on the 29th of October each year, serves as a vital platform for increasing public understanding of strokes, their management, and effective prevention strategies.

This year's focal theme, 'Greater than Stroke,' underscores the critical role of addressing modifiable risk factors to prevent the onset of strokes. Additionally, the theme emphasizes the significance of recognizing early symptoms and promptly initiating appropriate treatment.

A stroke, also known as a brain attack, refers to the sudden onset of brain tissue damage caused by either a blockage in a blood vessel or the rupture of a blood vessel. It constitutes a medical emergency of neurological significance.

Globally, strokes rank as the second leading cause of both mortality and disability, following closely behind heart disease.

Several common risk factors that contribute to the likelihood of stroke occurrence include obesity, sedentary lifestyle, tobacco use, smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated blood cholesterol levels, and various heart valve or rhythm disorders.

Immediate medical attention is crucial when any individual displays symptoms indicative of a stroke. A comprehensive assessment, typically involving a CT scan or an MRI of the brain, is necessary to confirm and categorize the stroke as either an infarct or a hemorrhage.

Implementing lifestyle modifications such as adopting a wholesome, low-fat diet, engaging in regular physical activity such as 30 minutes of brisk walking, and combating addiction are pivotal in reducing the risk of strokes.

Adhering to prescribed medications, particularly those targeting blood sugar and blood pressure, as well as blood thinners and lipid-lowering drugs, is essential in the preventive efforts against strokes.