Kathmandu, October 29

Due to unhealthy lifestyle and food habits, the country has seen rapid increase in the number of people suffering from stroke.

Stroke is a medical condition in which poor blood flow to the brain results in cell death. It occurs when the blood supply in the brain is interrupted or reduced.

This deprives oxygen and nutrients in the brain which can cause brain cells to die. A stroke may be caused by a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or the leaking or bursting of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke).

Old age, alcohol consumption, tobacco, drugs, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes are the factors contributing to stroke.

According to Dr Paras Rayamajhi, a neurologist at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, people diagnosed with stroke have been increasing in the hospital.  “Habit of abandoning medicines of blood pressure after consuming for certain period of time or without consulting doctors can lead to stroke. One out of 10 people experiences stroke in the country,” he added.

80 million people in the world have had a stroke, 50 million stroke survivors live with some form of permanent disability.

“50 per cent of people admitted in the hospital after stroke complain of lack of movement in certain parts of their bodies,” said Dr Rayamajhi.

“The number is increasing as four to five stroke patients are admitted in the hospital on a daily basis. we have limited beds available for in stroke ward. Due to the over flow of stroke patients, we shift some patients to other wards while some are referred to other hospitals,” Dr Rayamajhi added.

On the occasion of World Stroke Day, he suggested people to follow a healthy lifestyle and avoid drug abuse, consumption of tobacco.

“Timely medication and treatment can prevent death resulting from stroke. Patient suffering from stroke can be saved, if he/she reaches hospital with four hours of stroke,” said Dr Rayamajhi.