Author's details
- Hakim A Abubakre
- BA (Hons) International Business Management, Msc Digital Marketing.
Reviewer's details
- Dr. Khashau Eleburuike
- MBBS (Ilorin) MSc. Global Health Karolinska Institute.
- Resident doctor in family medicine in Northen Sweden.
- Date Published: 2025-06-14
- Date Updated: 2026-01-02
Stroke
Key Messages
- Stroke happens when blood flow to the brain stops, causing brain cells to die quickly.
- The main causes are blocked or burst blood vessels in the brain.
- Warning signs include face drooping, arm weakness, and slurred speech—act fast and get medical help immediately.
- Stroke is a medical emergency, not a spiritual attack or curse.
- Prevention includes checking blood pressure, eating healthy, exercising, and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol.
Introduction
What is Stroke?
A stroke happens when blood stops flowing to a part of the brain. The brain needs blood to work. Without blood, brain cells die quickly. This can make the body stop working properly.
Discussion
What Causes Stroke?
- Blocked Blood Vessel (Ischemic Stroke)
- A clot blocks the blood going to the brain.
- This is the most common kind.
- Burst Blood Vessel (Hemorrhagic Stroke)
- A blood vessel breaks and bleeds in the brain.
Who Can Get a Stroke?
Anyone can get a stroke, but it is more common in:
- People over 40 years
- People with high blood pressure (BP)
- People with diabetes
- People who smoke
- People who drink too much alcohol
- People who do not exercise
- People who eat too much salt, oil, or fatty food
Warning Signs of Stroke – Remember “FAST”
| Sign | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| F – Face | One side of the face drops. The person cannot smile properly. |
| A – Arms | One arm is weak. The person cannot raise both arms. |
| S – Speech | Speech is slurred. Hard to understand words. |
| T – Time | Act fast. Get to hospital or clinic quickly. Time saves life and brain! |
What to Do If Someone Has a Stroke
- Take the person to the hospital or health center immediately
- Do not give food, water, or medicine until a health worker checks them
- Do not wait at home or try local herbs first — every minute matters!
What Stroke Is NOT
- Stroke is not a spiritual attack
- Stroke is not a curse
- Stroke is a medical emergency, like a heart problem or an accident
How to Prevent Stroke
- Check your blood pressure often
- Go to a clinic even if you feel well.
- Eat healthy food
- More fruit, vegetables, less salt and palm oil.
- Do not smoke or chew tobacco
- Drink less alcohol
- Or stop completely.
- Exercise daily
- Walk, farm, sweep, dance – keep moving.
- Take your medicine
- If the doctor gives you medicine for BP or diabetes, take it every day.
Life After Stroke
Some people get better after a stroke, others may have:
- Weakness in the body
- Trouble speaking
- Memory loss
Rehabilitation and family support help a lot. Be patient and encourage the person.
Community Tips
- Help stroke survivors walk, talk, and eat safely
- Do not shame or blame them
- Support them with love and care
- Join local stroke support groups if available
Where to Get Help
- Visit your nearest clinic or health post
- Some larger hospitals have physiotherapists to help after stroke
- Faith-based health centers often offer affordable care
References
- World Health Organization (WHO) – Stroke Fact Sheet, 2023
- World Stroke Organization – Awareness Toolkit
- Ogeng’o, J.A. et al. (2021). Stroke in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review. East African Medical Journal.
- Ministry of Health Guidelines – Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya Stroke Management Plans
