Stroke is a medical emergency that needs immediate attention because brain cells can die within minutes. It is also a leading cause of disability in adults. Prompt and accurate treatment can minimize brain damage and prevent potential complications.

A simple way to recognize stroke symptoms is with the acronym "ACT FAST":
- A rm weakness or numbness
- F acial drooping
- S peech difficulty
- T rouble walking
- S evere headache

Early recognition and prompt medical help can reduce the negative impact of this condition. The golden window for stroke treatment is within 3 to 4.5 hours of the onset, reducing the risk of death and permanent disability. Therefore, if you notice symptoms suggestive of a stroke, don't wait for the condition to worsen.

RISK FACTORS FOR STROKE include:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure), responsible for approximately 70% of stroke cases
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Heart disease, and certain heart medications that may increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke
- Sleep apnea
- A history of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)

Lifestyle-related risk factors include:
- Smoking, with a risk 2-2.5 times higher for daily smokers
- Lack of physical activity
- Use of illegal drugs, especially cocaine and methamphetamine, strong risk factors for stroke, particularly in younger individuals
- Alcohol addiction

Other risk factors encompass:
- Family history, with individuals having family members who've experienced stroke at a higher risk
- Age, as stroke is more common in individuals over 60, but it can also affect younger people, with around 28% of stroke cases occurring in those under 65.

PREVENTING STROKE:
The primary way to prevent a stroke is by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, recognizing and avoiding risk factors is crucial. Prevention measures include:

- Maintaining a healthy diet: Reducing excessive salt, focusing on foods rich in unsaturated fats, protein, vitamins, and fiber found in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean meats like skinless chicken breast.

- Regular physical activity: Consistent exercise improves heart and circulatory system efficiency, lowers cholesterol levels, and maintains healthy blood pressure and body weight.

- Quitting smoking: Smokers are at double the risk of stroke due to narrowed blood vessels and increased clotting. Quitting also reduces the risk of other health problems like lung disease and heart disease.

- Limiting alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption contributes to stroke risk, especially when it comes to diabetes and high blood pressure.

- Avoiding the use of illicit drugs: Certain drugs can narrow arteries and reduce blood flow.

- Managing weight: Obesity increases the risk of mild strokes. Losing excess weight reduces the risk.

- Regular medical check-ups: These include routine blood pressure monitoring. Uncontrolled high blood pressure is the most significant risk factor for stroke, and maintaining a healthy blood pressure reading (below 120/80 mmHg) is vital.

Controlling blood sugar levels: For individuals at risk of diabetes, managing blood sugar levels is essential. High blood sugar can damage and block blood vessels, increasing the risk of stroke. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and taking prescribed medications as directed by a doctor.

Author: Dr. Melynda Elka Putri (Medical Consultant at PRAMITA Laboratory Clinic, Jl. Jend. Sudirman No. 14-CD, Pekanbaru)