Follow Dr. Jose Biller's 'FAST' Tips to Reduce the Risk of Stroke

Stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery or a blood vessel breaks, interrupting the blood flow to an area of the brain. It can happen to anyone at any age. Scientists have now come up with easy to remember pointers, which can help reduce the risk of having a stroke.

Dr. Jose Biller, from Chicago-based Loyola University's Department of Neurology believes that one can significantly reduce the risk of a stroke by controlling factors such as tobacco and alcohol intake, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, transient ischemic attacks (mini strokes), diabetes, obesity and heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation. He said, "It is crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms of stroke and prompt treatment potentially can reduce stroke damage significantly."

Dr. Biller has listed the following four steps to avoid a stroke. He calls it 'FAST'-

F- Face. Ask the person to smile, and see if one side of the face droops.

A- Arms. Ask the person to raise both arms, and check whether one arm drifts downwards

S- Speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase, and see if the speech sounds slurred or strange.

T- Time. If you observe any of these signs, it is an emergency.

Source: Medindia