Strokes double in 40 and 50 year olds
Research from the Stroke Association shows that strokes have almost doubled in 40 and 50 year olds in less than 15 years. One in four victims are working age.
Dr Chris talks us through the symptoms and ways that we can ward off a stroke.
What are the symptoms
Each person is affected differently by stroke and individual symptoms depend on which parts of the brain are affected and for what specific functions these parts of the brain are responsible. The severity of the symptoms depends on how much damage is done to the brain. The main symptoms of stroke are:
physical problems in one side of the body (numbness, weakness)
drooping in one side of the face
speech problems (slurred speech, muddled words) and
visual problems (blurred vision, loss of vision)
In more serious cases, the person might lose consciousness
How can I reduce my risk of having a stroke
Have your blood pressure checked regularly (KNOW YOUR NUMBERS - BLOOD PRESSURE, CHOLESTEROL AND BLOOD SUGAR)
Stop smoking
Cut down on how much alcohol you drink
Eat a healthy diet (cut down on salt and fatty foods)
Exercise regularly