Introduction
Stroke is one of the leading causes of permanent disability in Nigerian adults and one of the top causes of death. Every minute after a stroke begins, nearly 2 million brain cells die. The difference between full recovery and lifelong paralysis often comes down to how quickly the person reaches a hospital.
Recognising a stroke and acting within hours can save a brain. This guide explains exactly what to look for and what to do.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when blood supply to part of the brain is suddenly cut off either by a blocked blood vessel (ischaemic stroke, the most common type) or a burst blood vessel (haemorrhagic stroke). Without blood and oxygen, brain cells begin dying immediately.
The longer treatment is delayed, the more brain tissue is permanently damaged.
Use the FAST Test Know It by Heart
FAST is a simple four-step test anyone can perform in less than a minute:
F - FACE
Ask the person to smile.
- Does one side of the face droop?
- Does the smile look uneven?
A - ARMS
Ask the person to raise both arms.
- Does one arm drift downward?
- Is one arm weak or numb?
S - SPEECH
Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
- Is the speech slurred?
- Do they sound confused?
- Are they struggling to find words?
T - TIME
If any of these signs are present:
Get to a hospital immediately. Do not wait.
Other signs of stroke include:
- Sudden severe headache with no obvious cause
- Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
- Sudden dizziness or loss of balance
- Sudden numbness or weakness affecting one side of the body
The 4.5-Hour Window Why Every Minute Counts
For the most common type of stroke (ischaemic stroke), there is a clot-busting treatment called thrombolysis that can significantly improve outcomes if given within 4.5 hours of symptom onset.
After that window closes, treatment options become more limited and the risk of permanent disability increases.
This is why stroke is a race against time.
Do not:
- Wait to see if symptoms improve
- Allow the person to "sleep it off"
- Delay seeking medical attention
Every minute matters.
What NOT to Do
Do not give aspirin
Some strokes are caused by bleeding rather than a clot. Aspirin can worsen bleeding and make the situation more dangerous.
Do not give food or water
Many stroke patients have difficulty swallowing and can choke.
Do not leave the person alone
Monitor them and arrange urgent transport to hospital.
Do not ignore symptoms that improve
A transient ischaemic attack (TIA or "mini-stroke") may resolve completely, but it is often a warning sign of a major stroke in the near future and requires urgent medical evaluation.
Who is at Risk of Stroke?
The major risk factors include:
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure the single most important risk factor in Nigeria
- Diabetes
- Atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat)
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Overweight and obesity
- Physical inactivity
- People over 55 years of age stroke risk increases substantially with each decade of life
If you have high blood pressure, controlling it is one of the most powerful ways to reduce your stroke risk.
Prevention Protect Your Brain
You can significantly reduce your risk of stroke by:
Control your blood pressure
Take prescribed medication consistently and attend regular check-ups.
Control your blood sugar
Proper diabetes management protects blood vessels and reduces stroke risk.
Exercise regularly
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity such as brisk walking on most days of the week.
Stop smoking and limit alcohol
Both significantly increase stroke risk.
Eat a healthier diet
Reduce salt intake and eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy proteins.
Know your numbers
Check your blood pressure regularly at Amkamed Pharmacy or your healthcare facility.
Conclusion
A stroke is a medical emergency. Every second counts.
Learn the FAST signs today and share them with your family members. If you ever notice these symptoms in yourself or someone else, do not delay.
Get to a hospital immediately.
Time is brain.
Visit Amkamed Pharmacy, Gombe State for blood pressure checks, stroke prevention advice, and guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Protect your brain. Act FAST.
References
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Osuntokun Award Lecture 2021: Challenges of Measuring the Burden of Stroke in Africa.Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases : The Official Journal of National Stroke Association. 2022. Walker R.Opinion