People of all ages are at risk of brain stroke. An irregular lifestyle, smoking and drinking alcohol can all lead to a stroke. Recognising the warning signs in advance helps people stay alert. Here are the signs of a brain stroke.

A brain stroke occurs when blood does not circulate properly to different parts of the brain. It also happens when oxygen and nutrients do not reach the brain tissue properly. In today's busy life, keeping three things in mind can help prevent the risk of a stroke.

The first thing needed to reduce the risk of brain stroke is enough sleep. It is also essential to go to bed on time at night and get into the habit of rising early. Doctors advise adults to sleep at least 7-8 hours, which brings the body many benefits. In today's busy working life many people do not sleep on time, and if sleep is disturbed every day, a brain stroke is inevitable.

Besides lack of sleep, smoking bidis and cigarettes and using other tobacco products raises the chance of a stroke. According to health experts, regular smoking almost doubles the likelihood of a brain stroke. Drinking alcohol also increases the risk. Drinking alcohol more than twice a day makes blood pressure rise sharply, and so, needless to say, the risk of a brain stroke rises dangerously too.

Along with the above, one of the main causes of brain stroke is lack of exercise, a neglect that is especially noticeable among the young generation. Regular exercise greatly reduces the risk of a brain stroke and keeps blood circulating properly in the brain. Without exercise the body gains weight, and with it the risk of a stroke goes up.

How can you tell whether your risk of brain stroke is rising? If you see these signs, be sure to take care, and see a doctor if necessary:

• difficulty understanding speech or trouble speaking;
• tiredness and drowsiness;
• loss of concentration;
• gradually weakening eyesight;
• numbness in the hands and feet.

Source: Dhaka Times. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.