STROKE IN NIGERIA
Stroke is a major cause of death and disability in population across the
world. Hypertension is the most common stroke risk factor globally as well as
in the Nigerian population, however other modifiable risk factors such as
obesity are becoming increasingly prevalent due to unhealthy diets and
sedentary lifestyle.
STROKE is a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. It is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in Nigeria. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts (or ruptures).
Two-thirds of all strokes are known to occur in
developing countries like Nigeria, also fatality rate in Nigeria may
be up to 40%.
CAUSES OF STROKE IN NIGERIA
The commonest risk factor
in Nigeria remains hypertension. Others notable risk factors
in Nigeria are:
Diabetes Mellitus
Central Obesity
Previous Stroke,
Cardiac Disease
HIV.
STROKE PREVENTION: The following are the ways by which stroke can be prevented:
Lower Blood Pressure
Lose Weight
Exercise More
If You Drink- Do It in Moderation
Treat Diabetes
Quit Smoking
SIGNS OF STROKE: Here are some of the
signs of stroke
Weakness on one side of the body
Numbness of the face
Unusual and severe headache
Vision loss
Numbness and tingling
Unsteady walk
TREATMENT FOR STROKE
Ischemic Stroke: Happens when a clot blocks a
vessel supplying blood to the brain. It's the most common type, accounting for
87% of all strokes. The treatment goal is to bust or remove the clot.
Hemorrhagic Stroke: Is caused
by a rupture in a blood vessel within the brain. Fewer strokes happen as the
result of a rupture. The treatment goal is to stop the bleeding.
CONCLUSION: Steps taken after your stroke are important in
helping you achieve the best possible recovery and independence. The good news
is that 80% of strokes in adults are preventable; however, after having a
stroke, risks are much higher for having another one. Preventing a second
stroke can be the most important treatment of all.