Strokes can be prevented

Strokes are the second most common killer but can be prevented by refraining from smoking, doing daily exercises, keeping the Body Mass Index (BMI) at a healthy level, consuming less salt and following a healthy diet, medical experts said.

National Strokes Association of Sri Lanka President, Consultant Neurologist Dr. Udaya Ranawaka told the media at the Health Education Bureau that a stroke is an emergency and it happens when the blood supply to a part of the brain is suddenly interrupted. This stops the brain from receiving oxygen and that part of the brain gets damaged. Intra-cerebral Haemorrhage is a less common type of stroke. It occurs when there is bleeding in the brain due to rupture of a blood vessel.

Recognising the warning signals of a stroke early is vital. Immediate medical attention can save lives and minimise disability. Stroke is the second leading cause of death and the leading cause of disability. Cerebral Infarct is the more common type of stroke. It occurs when a blood clot forms in a blood vessel in the brain and blocks the flow of blood.