What happens during a stroke
Brain cells rely on a steady blood supply for oxygen and nutrients. A stroke cuts that supply off, and the Stroke Foundation describes two types. In an ischaemic stroke, a clot blocks an artery in the brain. In a haemorrhagic stroke, the wall of a blood vessel in the brain breaks.
Either way, the effects depend on which part of the brain is damaged. Thinking, speech, swallowing, vision and movement can all be affected, and stroke can happen at any age.
Think F.A.S.T.
The Stroke Foundation recommends the F.A.S.T. test as an easy way to remember the most common signs:
- Face: has their mouth drooped?
- Arms: can they lift both arms?
- Speech: is it slurred, and do they understand you?
- Time: is critical. If you see any of these signs, call 000 straight away.
Speed changes outcomes. Emergency treatment soon after symptoms begin improves the chance of survival and of a successful rehabilitation.
Other signs can appear alone or together, such as weakness or numbness in the face, an arm or a leg on either side, dizziness or an unexplained fall, sudden loss or blurring of vision, a severe headache that comes on abruptly, and trouble swallowing.
Signs that disappear within minutes may be a transient ischaemic attack (TIA). It is still an emergency: call 000 however briefly the symptoms last, because stroke risk is higher after a TIA.
What our stroke risk assessment in Abermain covers
The Stroke Foundation advises people to see a doctor or pharmacist about four medical risk factors:
- High blood pressure, which weakens blood vessel walls and can cause clots or plaques to break off.
- Type 2 diabetes, which affects how the body absorbs glucose.
- High cholesterol, which can narrow arteries with plaque.
- Atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat covered in the questions below.
Your pharmacist looks at where you stand and gives advice suited to you. Some factors cannot change, including older age, being male, a family history or a previous stroke. When they apply, the changeable ones matter even more.
To put numbers to your risk, add a free blood pressure evaluation to the same visit.
Everyday changes that help
According to the Stroke Foundation, more than 80% of strokes can be prevented. Its advice is to stay active, eat well and quit smoking, since smoking doubles your risk of stroke by damaging blood vessels, raising blood pressure and making blood more likely to clot. Alcohol is worth avoiding too, since it can cause high blood pressure and an irregular heartbeat.
Stroke questions
How does an irregular heartbeat lead to a stroke?
With atrial fibrillation, blood can pool and stagnate as it moves through the heart. A clot can form there and travel to the brain. If you notice your pulse feels irregular, see your GP.
Do women have different stroke risks?
Yes. Alongside the factors everyone shares, the Stroke Foundation lists some specific to women: pregnancy, which can raise blood pressure; oral contraceptive pills, particularly those with a higher oestrogen dose; and hormone replacement therapy, linked with a small increase in risk. Talk these through with your GP.
Where can I get stroke advice over the phone?
The Stroke Foundation runs StrokeLine on 1800 787 653 for advice and guidance.
For more ways to keep track of your health, browse our pharmacy health checks.
Give a few minutes to your heart and brain
Call in to Abermain Chemist on Cessnock Road while the store is open for a quick assessment and personalised advice. If you already know your blood pressure or cholesterol results, bring them along.