Headaches stem from various causes, including stroke. Without a clear description of your headache's progression, it's impossible to confirm a stroke risk. Many headaches result from illness, stress, pressure, insomnia, or other medical conditions. However, a stroke-related headache typically develops rapidly and is more severe. Patients often describe it as a sudden, unexpected "thunderclap" headache. Many also experience dizziness, vomiting, or even collapse, calling it "the worst headache of their life".
Other stroke symptoms can manifest abruptly, sometimes just minutes before an event, or even several hours earlier. Some individuals may go to sleep feeling fine and awaken to sudden coma or weakness in one side of their body.
Experts advise using the BE F.A.S.T formula for early stroke detection, which includes:
**B (Balance):** Sudden difficulty maintaining balance, staggering, or falling.
**F (Face):** Check for facial drooping, asymmetry, or numbness.
**A (Arm):** Observe for weakness or numbness in one arm.
**S (Speech):** Notice if speech is slurred or difficult.
**T (Time):** Call emergency services immediately if any symptoms appear, to ensure timely treatment.
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Illustration: Central coastneurology |
Illustration: Central coastneurology
Stroke is a prevalent disease that is increasingly affecting younger individuals. While anyone can suffer a stroke, certain groups face higher risks. These include: individuals over 50, those with a previous stroke, a family history of stroke (particularly in those under 40), high blood pressure, congenital heart disease or coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, diabetes, regular smoking, alcohol consumption, diets high in oil and saturated fats, physical inactivity, and obesity.
As stroke can occur at any moment, recognizing its symptoms is vital for improving survival rates. Experts recommend compiling a list of nearby hospitals with 24-hour stroke treatment facilities and documenting all current medications and allergies.
Associate Professor, Doctor Do Duc Thuan
Head of Stroke Department, Military Hospital 103
