Professor of Neurobiology Annelies Bronckaerts from Uhasselt shares valuable insights into an exciting online college at the University of Flanders. Now look at this and discover how to understand a stroke and what you can do to prevent it.
What's a stroke?
A Cerebrovascular Accident, or stroke, is a serious medical condition in which the blood flow to part of the brain is suddenly interrupted. This can have dramatic consequences, as our brain, unlike skin cells, does not create new cells. Professor Bronckaerts explains in the college how blockages can occur and what the consequences are.
Risk Factors and Prevention: Healthy Life as Key
Although genetic predisposition can play a role, there are other risk factors such as smoking, high cholesterol and diabetes. The good news is that you can reduce your risk by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Regular sports, avoiding stress, stopping smoking and eating healthy food are crucial steps. Health checks and screening tests can also identify potential risks early.
Symptoms Recognize:
The FAST Method
In case of stroke, every second is crucial. It is essential to recognise the symptoms quickly. A useful tool is the FAST method:
- F (Face): Check the face for asymmetry, like a crooked smile.
- A (Arm): Look at movement problems in the arms, especially coordinated movements.
- S (Speech): Note speech problems, such as difficulty in talking and understanding.
- T (Time): Time is essential; hurry to the hospital for faster treatments.
Don't let this valuable information pass you by. Look at the college and share it with your loved ones. Knowledge is power, and it can save lives!