NHS w.arns first symptom of ‘silent k.iller’ might not ‘seem like much’ but it is (Page 2 ) | August 15, 2025

There are two main causes of strokes:

+ Ischaemic – where the blood supply is stopped due to a blood clot (this accounts for 85% of all cases).
+ Haemorrhagic – where a weakened blood vessel supplying the brain bursts.

A related condition is a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), commonly called a “mini-stroke.” A TIA happens when blood flow to the brain is temporarily blocked, leading to symptoms similar to a stroke, but it doesn’t cause lasting brain damage.

A stroke is a critical, potentially f.atal medical issue. Strokes are considered a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is crucial.

The quicker someone gets treatment for a stroke, the less likely it is that brain damage will happen. Even if the signs of a stroke disappear, you or the person experiencing a stroke should still visit a hospital for evaluation.

Main stroke symptoms can happen suddenly and include:

– face weakness – one side of your face may droop (fall) and it might be hard to smile.
– arm weakness – you may not be able to fully lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in one arm.
speech problems – you may slur your words or sound confused.

The NHS adds: “Easiest way to remember these symptoms is the word FAST. This stands for: face, arms, speech and time to call 999.”

Other symptoms of a stroke:

There are other signs that you or someone else is having a stroke. These include:

– weakness or numbness down one side of your body
– blurred vision or loss of sight in one or both eyes
– finding it difficult to speak or think of words
– confusion and memory loss
– feeling dizzy or falling over
– a severe headache
– feeling or being sick (nausea or vomiting)

The NHS adds: “Symptoms of a stroke can sometimes stop after a short time, so you may think you’re okay. Even if this happens, get medical help straight away. A stroke is more likely to happen if you’re older, but it can happen at any age.”

What causes a stroke?

– High blood pressure: It’s a big risk factor for both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes since it can harm blood vessels and raise the chances of clots.
– Heart conditions: Issues like irregular heartbeats (such as atrial fibrillation) and problems with heart valves can cause blood clots to form, leading to a stroke.
– Diabetes: This condition ups the stroke risk because it affects blood vessels, and high blood sugar can make brain damage worse after a stroke.
– High cholesterol: It leads to plaque buildup in the arteries.
– Smoking: It harms blood vessels, raises blood pressure, and makes blood more prone to clotting.
– Obesity and inactivity: These factors heighten the stroke risk because they are linked to other issues like high blood pressure and diabetes.
– Age: The likelihood of having a stroke goes up as you get older since arteries tend to become stiffer and narrower.
– Family history: If someone in your family has had a stroke, your risk can be higher.

Making some lifestyle changes can really help manage certain risk factors. You might also have to stick to a regular medication routine. If you have an irregular heartbeat from atrial fibrillation, taking anticoagulant medication can lower your stroke risk. If you’ve experienced a stroke or TIA, these steps are crucial since your chances of having another stroke are increased.

In most cases, it’s possible to significantly reduce your risk of having a stroke by making lifestyle changes like eating a healthy diet. A low-fat, low-salt, high-fibre diet is usually recommended, with plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grains.

Exercising regularly – this can help lower your cholesterol level and keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. Stopping smoking if you smoke, and cutting down on the amount of alcohol you drink

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