Your health and safety matter — not just to you and your loved ones, but to all of us at HTM Pharmacy. That is why we are here to shed light on one of the most serious — and yet widely misunderstood — medical emergencies: stroke.

Every year, strokes affect millions of lives around the world, often striking without warning. But here is the surprising truth: many strokes are preventable, and when recognized early, immediate action can make all the difference between full recovery and long-term disability.

Despite its impact, there is still a lot of confusion about what a stroke actually is, who is at risk, and what to do when symptoms appear. Misconceptions can delay treatment — and when it comes to stroke, every second counts.

What Is a Stroke?

A stroke occurs when the blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or interrupted, depriving brain tissue of oxygen. This can be caused by a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke).

When a stroke happens, every second counts — quick action can save lives and reduce long-term damage.

Common Stroke Myths (And the Truth You Should Know)

Myth 1: Stroke only happens to older people
Fact: Strokes can happen at any age. High blood pressure, smoking, and poor lifestyle choices can increase risk — even in young adults.

Myth 2: Stroke is always painful
Fact: Most strokes are not painful. Look for sudden signs like confusion, slurred speech, or one-sided weakness.

Myth 3: If symptoms go away, it is nothing serious
Fact: Even if symptoms disappear, it could be a mini-stroke (TIA) — a warning sign of a future major stroke. Seek medical attention immediately.

Myth 4: Stroke cannot be prevented
Fact: Up to 80% of strokes are preventable with healthy habits and routine health checks.

Myth 5: Recovery only happens in the first few months
Fact: With proper rehab and support, stroke survivors can continue to improve for years.

Know the Warning Signs – Act FAST

Use the F.A.S.T. acronym to remember stroke symptoms:

• F – Face drooping
  
  
• A – Arm weakness
  
  
• S – Speech difficulty
  
  
• T – Time to call emergency services
  
  

If you see these signs in yourself or someone else, call emergency services immediately.

How to Prevent a Stroke

Stroke prevention starts with small, everyday choices. Here is what you can do:

• Monitor your blood pressure – High blood pressure is the number 1 risk factor
  
  
• Quit smoking – Smoking greatly increases stroke risk
  
  
• Stay active – Regular exercise improves heart and brain health
  
  
• Eat a balanced diet – Choose foods low in salt, fat, and sugar
  
  
• Manage conditions – Keep diabetes, cholesterol, and heart disease under control
  
  
• Limit alcohol intake

Stroke Recovery and Management

Recovery after a stroke depends on the type and severity, but early rehabilitation is key. Support often includes:

• Physiotherapy and occupational therapy
  
  
• Speech and language therapy
  
  
• Medication to prevent another stroke
  
  
• Lifestyle changes to reduce future risk
  
  
• Emotional and psychological support
  
  

Our pharmacists can guide you on managing medication, monitoring blood pressure, and making healthier lifestyle choices to support both prevention and recovery.

Need Advice?

Visit us at HTM PHARMACY to speak with our friendly healthcare team. Whether you need help checking your blood pressure, understanding your medications, or just want to talk about stroke prevention — we are here for you.