World Stroke Day is celebrated every year on October 29 to increase public awareness about risk factors, warning signs, prevention methods, and timely treatment of this condition.
The World Stroke Organization established this day in 2006 and in 2010, declared stroke a public health emergency.
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted due to a blocked or ruptured blood vessel. Rapid diagnosis and receiving emergency medical care can play a vital role in reducing brain damage and saving the patient’s life.
The most important warning signs of this condition include sudden loss of balance, visual impairment, drooping of one side of the face, weakness or numbness in the hand, and difficulty speaking. If you experience these symptoms, you should contact emergency medical services immediately, even if the symptoms resolve after a short time.
High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, smoking, unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise are important factors that increase the risk of stroke. Older age and family history can also increase the risk.
Experts emphasize controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, following a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and pursuing treatment for underlying diseases; actions that can reduce the risk of stroke.
