A stroke is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate treatment, according to the NHS.
It’s caused by the blood supply to part of the brain becoming cut off.
The condition can lead to widespread and long-lasting problems, including difficulty moving, incontinence, and communication problems.
Stroke symptoms include a drooping face on one side, difficulty lifting one or both arms – or struggling to keep them raised – and garbled speech.
Those most likely to develop a stroke are people over 55 years old, or have high blood pressure.
Anyone can have a stroke, but there are certain things that can increase your risk, according to charity the Stroke Association.
You’re more likely to have a stroke when you’re older, but one in four strokes happen to people of working age, it said.
As we get older, our arteries become narrower and harder.
But, you could also be at risk of a stroke if you have certain medical conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, arterial fibrillation, and high cholesterol.
“The way we live has a big impact on our risk of stroke,” said the charity.
“Things like smoking, drinking too much alcohol, being overweight and eating unhealthy foods can damage your blood vessels, increase your blood pressure and make your blood more likely to clot.
“If a close relative [parent, grandparent, brother or sister] has had a stroke, your risk is likely to be higher.
“If you are of South Asian origins, or from an African or Caribbean background, you are at a higher risk of stroke than other people in the UK.
“People in these groups can be more likely to have conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure which can raise your stroke risk.”
Women could also be at risk of a stroke if they have high levels of the hormone oestrogen.
You could lower your risk of a stroke by eating a healthy, balanced diet, said the NHS.
An unhealthy diet could increase your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
You should aim for a low-fat, high-fibre diet, including fresh fruit and vegetables.
Combine your healthy diet with regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight, and therefore lower your risk of a stroke.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity.
