Stroke mainly refers to acute lesions of the brain's blood vessels, leading to functional impairment of the brain due to compression of brain tissue or insufficient blood perfusion. It can be divided into cerebral vessel occlusion (ischemic stroke) and cerebral vessel rupture (hemorrhagic stroke); the more common type is ischemic stroke, accounting for about 70‑75% of strokes.
As the public's health awareness rises, the expectation is not only longer life expectancy but also a life of mobility, dignity, and independence. In recent years, thanks to rapid advances in medical and pharmaceutical technology, stroke patients who receive timely care can regain health and escape the threat of death.
FAST Stroke Recognition Mnemonic
- F (Face)：facial asymmetry when smiling
- A (Arm)：one arm drifts down when both arms are raised
- S (Speak)：slurred speech, difficulty speaking, unable to express meaning
- T (Time)：if any of the above symptoms occur, note the time of stroke onset and call 119
Risk Factors
- Hypertension (systolic >130 mmHg; diastolic >80 mmHg)
- Diabetes
- Heart disease (myocardial ischemia or infarction)
- Previous stroke
- Obesity, hyperlipidemia
- Long-term smoking
- Long-term alcohol abuse
- Advanced age
- Use of oral contraceptives
Common Symptoms
- Dizziness, vomiting, sudden headache
- Difficulty swallowing, drooling
- Sudden unclear speech or inability to speak, communication difficulty
- Sudden weakness of one or both sides of the body
- Sudden visual disturbances (double vision, blurred vision, visual field loss)
- Unsteady gait, ataxia
- Sudden facial droop and eye deviation
- Incontinence of urine and feces
- Seizures
Health Care Tips
- Know your blood pressure: it is important to regularly monitor blood pressure daily and take medication on time
- Smoking cessation is recommended
- Diabetic patients should actively control blood glucose
- Pay attention to diet and exercise to effectively control blood lipids
- Weight control and regular moderate exercise
- Work moderately, get sufficient rest; maintain stable emotions
- Prevent constipation by eating more fiber, drinking more water, and establishing regular bowel habits
- Shower water temperature should be 36–40 °C
