As Guangdong is experiencing a sharp drop in temperature, Cai Xiaodong, deputy director of the Department of Neurology at the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, has reminded residents to be aware of stroke.
In autumn and winter, there is a higher incidence of stroke, especially when the temperature drops. The cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, blood pressure to rise, and blood viscosity to increase, thereby increasing the risk of cerebral blood vessel rupture or blockage.
Additionally, autumn and winter also see a higher incidence of respiratory infections, such as colds and flu. It can increase the burden on cardiovascular and cerebrovascular vessels, triggering or worsening strokes.
Stroke can happen among young people; children and adolescents are also not at zero-risk
While children and adolescents are at a lower risk of stroke, it does not mean they are completely free from it. Strokes in this age group are primarily due to congenital or hereditary heart or blood disorders, trauma, or infection.
Children and adolescents should pay attention to keeping warm, preventing infections, and having regular check-ups.
Young people should maintain a healthy lifestyle, which includes avoiding staying up late, quitting smoking and alcohol, engaging in appropriate exercise, maintaining a light diet, and staying in a good mood.
Middle-aged and elderly people are at high risk of stroke
Middle-aged and elderly individuals face a higher risk of stroke due to the gradual deterioration of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular functions with age. This includes thickening and hardening of blood vessel walls, slowing blood flow, and an increased susceptibility to atherosclerosis or thrombosis, which can result in cerebral blood vessel rupture or blockage.
They should attach importance to controlling blood pressure, blood sugar, and lipids. It is also important to quit smoking and drinking alcohol, as well as stay warm.
What should I do if a sudden temperature drop causes someone around me to have a stroke?
To minimize disability and mortality, early identification is crucial. It is necessary to promptly send the patient to the hospital for diagnosis and treatment.
If someone is experiencing a stroke, you should call the "120" hotline and take them to a hospital's stroke green channel as soon as possible. While waiting for an ambulance, you can take the following measures:
1. Lay the patient flat on their back, loosen the collar and belt, and keep their airway open.
2. If the patient is experiencing nausea and vomiting, tilt their head to one side to prevent inhalation of vomit into the trachea.
3. If the patient has convulsions, put chopsticks wrapped in a handkerchief into the patient's mouth to prevent biting the tongue and remove any surrounding dangerous objects to to avoid bruises and injuries..
4. Do not give the patient any water, food, or medication.
5. Observe the patient's vital signs including blood pressure, blood glucose, and heart rate, and record the time and symptoms of the stroke.
Author | Hannah
Editor | Steven, Monica, James
