Symptoms of Stroke
It's important to be aware of the symptoms of a stroke so that you can quickly recognize when one is coming. The most common signs of stroke include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body; confusion; trouble speaking or understanding; trouble seeing; difficulty walking; dizziness; and a severe headache. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical help immediately.
Emergency Treatment
If you are experiencing symptoms of a stroke, it is important to seek emergency medical help right away. The sooner a stroke is treated, the better the chances of recovery. Treatment may include medications to reduce the risk of further brain damage, as well as physical, occupational, and speech therapy to help the person regain function.
Lifestyle Changes
Making lifestyle changes can help to reduce the risk of stroke. These include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, controlling high blood pressure, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight. It's also important to manage any medical conditions that can increase the risk of stroke, such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and atrial fibrillation.
Medications
Medications can also help to reduce the risk of stroke. These include medications to control high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes. Aspirin can also help to reduce the risk of stroke, so it is important to talk to your doctor about whether or not it is right for you.