Lifestyle changes are the main reason for the increase in stroke cases today. The main factors leading to this are:
1. High blood pressure (High BP)
High BP is the most important cause of stroke. When blood pressure increases, the thin blood vessels in the brain become strained and they break or become blocked.
2. High cholesterol
Atherosclerosis, a build-up of fat in the blood vessels, blocks blood flow. As the blood vessels narrow, oxygen flow to the brain decreases and stroke occurs.
3. Diabetes
Increased blood sugar levels weaken blood vessels and increase the risk of blood clots. Diabetics are twice as likely to have a stroke as others.
4. Smoking and alcohol
Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood and damages blood vessels. Excessive alcohol consumption increases blood pressure and causes changes in the heart rate, which increases the risk of stroke.
5. Heart Disease (Atrial Fibrillation)
Arrhythmia can cause blood clots in the heart. The clotted blood travels to the brain and blocks blood flow, causing a stroke.
6. Obesity and lack of exercise
A sedentary lifestyle increases weight and also brings diseases such as diabetes and cholesterol. This indirectly doubles the risk of stroke.
Symptoms of Stroke (FAST Formula):
The FAST method can be used to identify whether a person has had a stroke:
F (Face): Does one side of the face droop when asked to smile?
A (Arms): Does one arm droop when asked to raise both arms?
S (Speech): Is there slurring or lack of clarity when speaking?
T (Time): If you see these symptoms, take them to the hospital immediately without wasting any time.