Stroke Can Strike Singaporeans At Any Age
A stroke is frequently labelled as a disease suffered usually by older people. However, that may not be the case as it can also hit younger people with very poor lifestyle habits.
According to the World Stroke Organisation (WSO), 1 in 4 people will suffer from a stroke during their lifetime — even those as young as 25.
Here are some important things to know about recognising signs of stroke, and preventing it.
Stroke is 4th leading cause of death among Singaporeans
Ministry of Health states that stroke is the 4th leading cause of death in Singapore just behind cancer, pneumonia & ischaemic heart diseases.
It took the lives of roughly 1,277 people in 2018. Strokes are also a real cause for concern as it may sometimes result in lifelong disabilities.
According to UK’s National Health Service, factors that contribute to your chances of getting a stroke at a younger age include:
- Smoking
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Excessive alcohol intake.
Headaches may be a sign of stroke
There are 2 types of stroke. Ischaemic stroke, the more common one, occurs when blood flowing to the brain is blocked by a clot.
The other more uncommon type is a hemorrhagic stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel bursts, resulting in bleeding in the brain. This kind of stroke is extremely dangerous and immediate treatment could determine between life or death.
Only 15% of stroke cases are hemorrhagic strokes and 40% of those cases result in death.
Here are the possible signs of stroke:
- Difficulty speaking
- Face droop
- Arm weakness
- Facial numbness
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Severe headache
- Giddiness
- Unsteady body movement
- Visual impairment
Knowing the signs of a stroke is very important as it can mean life or death. It’s best to dial 995 immediately upon recognising the onset.
Eat healthy to prevent stroke
One way you can lower the chances of getting a stroke is to have a healthy diet.
Eating low-fat & high-fiber food products as well as fruits is recommended. You should also avoid food that is high in salt & sugar, such as your favourite instant noodles.
Another way you can prevent yourself from getting a stroke is to exercise more frequently. You are encouraged to exercise for at least 150 minutes every week to keep your blood pressure healthy.
For the smokers out there, try to cut down or totally stop smoking as smoking will narrow your arteries, which makes your chances of getting a blood clot higher.
Be aware of stroke symptoms & share them with loved ones
A stroke can dramatically change your life and affect those around you.
So do remember to memorise the symptoms of a stroke and tell your friends about it so that we can respond quickly should it happen to someone near you.
Featured image adapted from Healthhub & Business Insider.
