Wellness Watch is a health information and advice column from OhioHealth.
ATHENS, Ohio – When it comes to stroke, every second counts. Recognizing the signs early and getting help quickly can mean the difference between a full recovery and lasting damage. OhioHealth neurologist Douglas A. Woo, MD, shares essential information about stroke warning signs, risk factors and why it’s so important to act fast.
What is a stroke?
Many people know someone who has experienced a stroke, but what happens in the brain during one?
“Your brain is the one organ in your body that does not store energy, so it needs a constant flow of blood to keep working,” said Dr. Woo. “A stroke is a lack of blood flow to a part of the brain.”
The brain depends on a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients, and even a brief interruption can cause serious harm.
“When you have a stroke, brain cells start to die because they’re not getting the nutrients they need,” explains Dr. Woo.
Know the signs and act fast
Strokes can strike suddenly, often without any warning. “The number one thing is a sudden change,” said Dr. Woo.
Some of the most common signs to watch for include:
- Sudden slurred speech
- Vision problems
- Loss of balance or coordination
If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, even if they go away, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately.
“Even if we can’t give you a clot-busting drug, we still want to see you,” stresses Dr. Woo. “The first 48 hours after a stroke are critical.”
Risk factors you can control
While some risk factors are out of our hands, many are closely tied to daily habits and lifestyle choices.
“Smoking is a huge risk factor,” says Dr. Woo. “It damages your blood vessels and makes clots more likely,”
One of the most significant contributors to stroke is high blood pressure, which can damage blood vessels over time, often without noticeable symptoms.
“The number one thing you can do is control your blood pressure and the best way to do that is through your diet,” says Woo.
Many people believe they are destined to have a stroke due to family history, but genetics play a smaller role than most think.
“Most strokes are not genetic,” says Woo. “They’re caused by lifestyle and modifiable risk factors.”
What happens after a stroke?
Recovery doesn’t end once the immediate effects of a stroke are treated. Ongoing care and condition management are vital to preventing another stroke.
“One stroke does increase your risk of having another,” says Dr. Woo. “Usually there’s an underlying condition like high blood pressure or diabetes that’s not well controlled.”
While that might sound discouraging, it actually highlights how much control people have over their health.
“It’s never too late to make healthy changes,” reminds Dr. Woo. “Even small steps can reduce your risk.”
Awareness is the first step. By recognizing the signs, understanding the risks, and taking action, we can protect ourselves and the people we love.
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