Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in Bangladesh. It happens when blood flow to part of the brain is suddenly blocked, or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. Every minute without treatment, millions of brain cells are lost — which is why recognising a stroke quickly can save a life and prevent lifelong paralysis.
BE FAST — an easy way to recognise a stroke
- B — Balance: sudden dizziness, loss of balance or inability to stand.
- E — Eyes: sudden blurred or lost vision in one or both eyes.
- F — Face: one side of the face droops when the person tries to smile.
- A — Arm: one arm drifts down or feels numb when both are raised.
- S — Speech: slurred or strange speech, or difficulty understanding.
- T — Time: if you see any of these signs, get to a hospital immediately.
What to do
- Lay the person on their side and check that they are breathing comfortably.
- Note the exact time the symptoms started — doctors need this information.
- Go to the nearest hospital with CT scan facilities, or call 999.
What not to do
- Do not give water, food or tablets by mouth — swallowing may be impaired.
- Do not give blood-pressure tablets or aspirin on your own; the stroke may be caused by bleeding.
- Do not waste time on home remedies, massage or “waiting to see”.
Who is at higher risk?
High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol, heart disease (especially an irregular heartbeat), obesity and physical inactivity are the main risk factors. High blood pressure is the single biggest one, so check it regularly and take medicines as prescribed.
Never ignore a “mini-stroke”
Sometimes the symptoms disappear within minutes or hours. This is called a TIA (transient ischaemic attack) and it is a warning sign of a major stroke. Even if you recover fully, see a neurologist promptly.
For post-stroke treatment, prevention of another stroke and rehabilitation planning, you can see Dr. Al-Mahamudul Alam Mimo at his Gaibandha or Sonargaon chamber.