Styria sees an average of 10 strokes a day

About 10 people in Styria suffer a stroke each day, according to ORF. Across Austria, around 20,000 people have a stroke each year. Slurred speech, paralysis or a sudden collapse can be signs of a stroke, and every minute counts.

Valeriu Gold, head of neurology at LKH Graz II hospital, said a stroke is always an emergency. Anyone who suspects a stroke should call an ambulance immediately, rather than contacting a family doctor or driving the person to hospital privately.

Patients are given an immediate CT scan, after which doctors decide on treatment based on the images. People with a suspected or confirmed stroke are admitted to a stroke unit. Styria has five such units, where speech, physical and occupational therapy can begin within hours of the stroke.

A blocked blood vessel causes 80 to 85 percent of strokes. Once the blockage is removed, doctors develop a treatment plan tailored to the patient. Follow-up care and rehabilitation may take place in an inpatient facility or on an outpatient basis, depending on the type and severity of the stroke.

Smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, high blood pressure, diabetes, unhealthy blood lipid levels and lack of exercise are the main risk factors. A healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk.