5 Must-Know Facts about Stroke

Stroke is an illness that leads to significant disability for up to 12 million people every year. Research  from the American Stroke Association reveals that in the United States, people suffers from a stroke in every 40 seconds. For Thailand, research from the Division of Non Communicable Diseases indicates that there were a total of 36,214 deaths due to stroke in 2021 that increased from 2020 around 1,669 deaths which is the highest number in five years since 2017.

We're sharing 5 facts to keep you informed and prevent this condition:

STROKE: Brain Cell Demolisher

Stroke occurs when blood vessels in the brain become blocked, causing dead brain cells from a lack of oxygen.

STROKE Has Different Types

• Ischemic Stroke: Due to clogs in blood vessels from fat.
• Hemorrhagic Stroke: Bleeding in the brain and meninges.
• Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Temporary blood vessels blockages lasting seconds to 24 hours.

STROKE Strikes Again

1 in 4 stroke survivors is still at risk for another type. However, 80% of ischemic strokes can be prevented.

STROKE is Preventable

Prevention is paramount. Consult specialized medical to identify preventive strategies. A healthy lifestyle, with good sleep, a balanced diet, no smoking, no excessive drinking, and regular exercise is crucial.

Time Matters

Delaying treatment leads to more brain cell loss. Watch for F.A.S.T. signs:

• Face: Weakness or drooping, especially when smiling.
• Arm: Weakness in one arm or leg.
• Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking.
• Time: Go to hospital within 4.5 hours to improve recovery chances.

Stroke strikes anytime, anywhere. On World Stroke Day, join us in spreading awareness for a healthier and sustainable society!

BDMS Wellness Clinic

LINE: @bdmswellnessclinic or https://lin.ee/Z4So1yQ

Reference

• Gerstl JVE, Blitz SE, Qu QR, Yearley AG, Lassarén P, Lindberg R, et al. Global, Regional, and National Economic Consequences of Stroke. Stroke. 2023 Sep 1;54(9):2380–9.
• กุลพิมน เจริญดี, ณัฐกฤตา บริบูรณ์, อรรถกร บุตรชุมแสง, สุพิน รุ่งเรือง, บรรณาธิการ. รายงานประจำปี 2565 🔹 กองโรคไม่ติดต่อ. [อินเทอร์เน็ต] นนทบุรี: กองโรคไม่ติดต่อ กรมควบคุมโรค กระทรวงสาธารณสุข; 28 กุมภาพันธ์ 2566 [เข้าถึงเมื่อ 21 กันยายน 2566]. เข้าถึงได้จาก: http://www.thaincd.com/document/file/download/paper-manual/Report2565NCDs.pdf
• American Stroke Association. 5 Key Facts About Stroke [Infographic]. 2022 [cited 2023 Sep 4]. Available from: https://www.stroke.org/en/professionals/stroke-resource-library/prevention/five-key-facts-about-stroke
• American Stroke Association. I AM Determined to Prevent Another Stroke [Infographic]. 2022 [cited 2023 Sep 4]. Available from: https://www.stroke.org/-/media/Stroke-Files/All-Infographics/I-AM-Determined-to-Prevent-Another-Stroke.pdf
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Stroke [Internet]. 2023 May 4 [cited 2023 Sep 4]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/about.htm