The brain is suddenly no longer supplied with blood
A stroke is also called a cerebral apoplexy because its main site is the brain. In one in five cases, a blood vessel there ruptures so that nerve cells are no longer supplied with oxygen and nutrients. As a result, they die. In men, vascular occlusion caused by arteriosclerosis usually results in a lack of blood flow to the brain. Women, on the other hand, are particularly frequently affected by atrial fibrillation of the heart, which causes dangerous blood clots.
Varied, sometimes unspecific symptoms
How a stroke manifests itself depends on the region of the brain affected. Severe, sudden headaches are possible symptoms, as well as difficulty swallowing, speech and vision problems or paralysis on one side. Women may also notice signs such as dizziness, nausea and shortness of breath, which are not immediately associated with a stroke. This means that it is only recognized late. However, every minute counts in the event of a stroke. Because the longer it goes untreated, the more brain cells are destroyed.
Stress and hormones have a major influence
Persistent stress is one of the biggest risk factors for cardiac arrhythmia - and women usually have poorer coping strategies than men. Hormonal contraceptive methods such as the contraceptive pill also increase the risk. Lifestyle also has a major influence. Regular exercise (at least 30 minutes, five times a week) can significantly reduce the risk. The same applies to a balanced diet with good fats from fish and nuts, which also prevents arteriosclerosis. Sugar, white flour, alcohol and nicotine, on the other hand, are poison for the blood vessels. As the feeling of thirst decreases with age, you should also make sure you drink enough. Two liters of water/unsweetened tea per day is ideal. This keeps the blood flowing and the brain is optimally supplied with vital nutrients.
Test: Is it an emergency?
FACE: Ask the person concerned to smile. If they cannot, they may have hemiplegia.
ARMS (arms): Ask the person to raise both arms at the same time. This is often no longer possible if the brain is impaired.
SPEECH (speech): Have the person say a simple sentence. Slurred pronunciation is a warning signal.
TIME: If there are one or more signs, call 112 immediately! This also applies to other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, severe dizziness.