The Chief Executive Officer of PIWAK natural health, producers of 3P garlic mixture has cautioned the public against ignoring numbness, warning that the condition could be an early sign of stroke.
The CEO,Dr Prince Nelson Mortoti urged individuals experiencing sudden or persistent numbness, particularly in the face, arm or leg, to seek immediate medical attention rather than dismissing the symptom.
According to the warning, numbness may be accompanied by other signs of stroke, including weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, confusion, dizziness, loss of balance and severe headache.
The public was advised to treat such symptoms as a medical emergency because prompt intervention can significantly improve the chances of recovery and reduce the risk of permanent disability.
The PIWAK CEO stressed that people should not wait for the symptoms to disappear on their own or rely solely on self-medication.
RECOGNISING THE WARNING SIGNS.
Stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. In either case, brain cells can begin to die within minutes.
Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body, is one of the major warning signs.
Other symptoms may include slurred speech, difficulty understanding speech, blurred vision, sudden dizziness, loss of coordination and an intense headache with no known cause.
The public is encouraged to remember the FAST warning signs: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty and Time to call emergency services.
EARLY ACTION IS IMPORTANT.
The PIWAK CEO said early medical attention was essential because treatment options are most effective when administered as soon as possible after symptoms begin.
Individuals who notice possible stroke symptoms in themselves or others should immediately contact emergency services and record the time the symptoms first appeared.
They were also advised not to drive themselves to a hospital, eat or drink, or take medication without professional guidance while waiting for medical assistance.
Even if the symptoms disappear after a short period, medical evaluation remains necessary because the episode could be a transient ischemic attack, commonly known as a mini-stroke, which may precede a major stroke.
PREVENTING STROKE.
The warning also highlighted the importance of managing risk factors associated with stroke.
High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity and physical inactivity can increase the risk of stroke.
Regular medical check-ups, a balanced diet, physical activity and adherence to prescribed medication can help reduce the risk.
People with existing health conditions were encouraged to follow medical advice and monitor their blood pressure and blood sugar levels regularly.
PUBLIC AWARENESS.
The PIWAK CEO called for increased public education on the warning signs of stroke and the importance of seeking timely medical care.
He urged families, workplaces and community leaders to take reports of sudden numbness seriously and help affected individuals obtain emergency medical attention.
The public was reminded that numbness does not always lead to stroke, but sudden or unexplained numbness should never be ignored.
Early recognition and prompt treatment, he said, could save lives and prevent long-term complications.
