Stroke remains one of the leading causes of serious disability and death globally, yet rapid recognition of symptoms and prompt medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes, according to guidance published by Mayo Clinic neurologists. Experts emphasise that nearly 90% of strokes may be preventable through appropriate management of modifiable risk factors.
Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, either through arterial blockage, in the case of ischaemic stroke, or through bleeding in the brain, in the case of haemorrhagic stroke. Both types require immediate emergency evaluation, as early treatment is directly associated with reduced long-term neurological damage.
Mayo Clinic promotes the BE FAST acronym as a practical tool for rapid symptom recognition: Balance (sudden loss of coordination), Eyes (abrupt vision disturbance or loss), Face drooping (uneven or numb facial appearance), Arm weakness (sudden weakness or numbness in one arm), Speech difficulty (slurred or impaired speech or comprehension), and Time to call emergency services immediately.
For ischaemic stroke, treatment options include thrombolytic medications to dissolve the clot and endovascular procedures in which a guidewire is threaded through a blood vessel to mechanically remove the clot and restore cerebral perfusion. For haemorrhagic stroke, management centres on blood pressure control, reversal of anticoagulation where applicable, and surgical decompression if required.
Modifiable risk factors associated with elevated stroke risk include hypertension, diabetes, smoking, obesity, hypercholesterolaemia, physical inactivity, and atrial fibrillation. Mayo Clinic experts recommend regular health screenings alongside dietary and lifestyle modification as the primary basis for stroke prevention.
Source: Ford TR. Recognize the sudden warning signs of stroke and BE FAST. Mayo Clinic News Network, 29 May 2026.
