Stroke
A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, either by a blocked artery (ischaemic stroke) or by bleeding into the brain (haemorrhagic stroke). Brain cells begin to die within minutes, so every minute counts. In Nigeria uncontrolled high blood pressure is the biggest single cause, and strokes often strike people in their forties and fifties. Many strokes are preventable by treating blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol.
Find a Neurology SpecialistMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Face drooping on one side
- Weakness or numbness in an arm or leg, usually on one side
- Slurred or confused speech, or difficulty understanding
- Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
- Sudden severe headache unlike any before
- Sudden dizziness, loss of balance or difficulty walking
- Symptoms that come and go within minutes (a mini-stroke, or TIA)
When to See a Doctor
Think FAST: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to go to hospital. Go immediately to a hospital that can do a CT scan. Do not wait to see if it passes, do not give anything by mouth, and do not go to a prayer house or traditional healer first. Symptoms that settle on their own (a TIA) still need assessment within 24 hours, because a full stroke often follows.
Treatment options
- An emergency CT scan to tell a clot from a bleed
- Clot-dissolving medicine (thrombolysis) for ischaemic stroke within hours of onset, where available
- Blood pressure control and supportive care in hospital
- Aspirin or other antiplatelet medicine for ischaemic stroke, once a bleed is ruled out
- Physiotherapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy for recovery
- Long-term control of blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, and stopping smoking
Common Questions
What should I do if someone is having a stroke?
Get them to a hospital with a CT scanner as fast as possible, and note the time the symptoms started. If they are drowsy, lay them on their side. Give nothing by mouth, not even water or medicine, because swallowing may be affected.
Can a stroke be prevented?
Many can. Keeping blood pressure under control is the single most important step, along with treating diabetes and cholesterol, stopping smoking, limiting alcohol and staying active. Check your blood pressure regularly even if you feel well.
Can a person recover after a stroke?
Many people recover a great deal, especially in the first three to six months, with rehabilitation. Recovery continues more slowly after that. Early physiotherapy and preventing a second stroke make a large difference.
Need Help?
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