World Stroke Day 2024: A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from receiving vital nutrients and oxygen.
This disruption can stem from ischemic strokes, caused by blockages in blood vessels, and hemorrhagic strokes, resulting from bleeding in or around the brain. High blood pressure, unhealthy diets, smoking, stress, family history and lack of physical activity are culprits easily overlooked daily.
However, there is still a lack of awareness regarding the warning signs of a stroke due to which there is a delay in seeking treatment.
On The Occasion Of World Stroke Day, Dr Pavan Pai, Consultant Interventional Neurologist & Stroke Specialist, in Mira Road & Mira Bhayandar (Mumbai) sheds light on the warning signs of a stroke that shouldn’t be ignored. Delayed treatment of stroke can lead to negative outcomes and challenges in performing day-to-day activities.
It is important to understand these warning signs to initiate timely life-saving interventions.
All you need to know about BEFAST
BEFAST is the acronym for a stroke that everyone should know about
- B: Balance: Loss of balance and inability to walk will indicate a stroke
- E: Eyes: Blurring of the eyes or loss of vision can be a matter of concern as it is one of the
- symptoms of a stroke
- F: Face: Facial drooping and uneven smile is also seen in people who suffer from a stroke
- A: Arm: Weakness of the arms is one of the common signs of a stroke
- S: Speech: Slurred speech, unable to speak clearly will mean a stroke
- T: Time: Time is key when it comes to treating a stroke.
“It is imperative to ensure the stroke patient is taken to a nearby stroke-ready hospital for immediate treatment inclusive of medication that is Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) or mechanical thrombectomy to manage stroke and help the patient to reclaim his/her life,” Dr. Pai told Financial Express.com.
What are the warning signs of stroke?
Don’t miss signs and symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, seizures, disorientation, loss of balance, inability to walk, weakness and numbness of face and legs, confusion, inability to swallow or eat. Stroke symptoms tend to vary from person to person.
“It is the need of the hour to educate everyone regarding the warning signs of a stroke for improved prognosis of the condition. Moreover, one should eat a well-balanced diet, exercise daily, stay stress-free by doing meditation, maintain an optimum weight, and keep blood pressure and blood sugar levels under control by taking medication as prescribed by the doctor to prevent a stroke,” he told Financial Express.com.