Neurowellness consultant and event medicine specialist, Dr Darren Green, has shared some insights into strokes and how they can be prevented during the festive season.

“December should be about joy, not emergencies. In South Africa, heart disease and stroke together are the second leading cause of death. With a little planning over the holidays, families can help keep each other safe,” Green said.

Green encouraged families to act on the FAST method to effectively see signs of a stroke:

• Face: one side of the face suddenly droops
• Arm: one arm suddenly becomes weaker or numb
• Speech: slurred or strange speech
• Time: it is important to act immediately by rushing the person to a healthcare worker or calling the emergency number 112

Other signs of a stroke, which Green listed, include: Severe headache, confusion, vision trouble, dizziness and difficulty walking.

He further explained that festive snacking, excessive alcohol and long periods of sitting, as well as stress, can push blood pressure up. Since high blood pressure is the silent driver behind many strokes, the Christmas period can be a risky time for strokes.

According to him, up to 80% of strokes are preventable through small and steady steps. This includes checking blood pressure and cholesterol regularly, moving daily for at least 15 minutes, and eating smarter by lowering salt and sugar intake.

Regular check-ups can be done at local clinics and are usually done quickly with little to no cost. Therefore, Green urges these screenings to be a part of everyone’s regular schedule.

To make your diet more healthy, Green advised adding oily fish twice a week for omega-3, such as canned pilchards. Plant-based meals like vegetable stew, samp and beans are also a great way to eat smart. The best way to analyse a healthy ingredient, Green said, is to look for the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa heart mark on the packaging.

At some stage, the festive season might bring a lot of stress for many, which can consequently raise blood pressure and elevate snacking and alcohol consumption. Green advised it is best to take 10 deep breaths and go for a five-minute walk before choosing the bad habits. He said to set this as a routine and share the load at home.

He emphasised it is never too late to turn things around, even if a person has already had a stroke. All that person needs to do is stick to medication, continue doctor appointments and rebuild strength with regular movements. If the person does, however, show any new signs, he noted it is best that their loved ones act fast and get help.

Green urged people to visit the heartfoundation.co.za for practical guides on healthy eating and stroke signs.