Want to Reduce Stroke Risk? Make a Few Simple Swaps.
Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in the U.S., but in many cases it can be prevented.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk of having a first stoke is nearly twice as high for African Americans and they have the highest rate of death due to stroke. Death rates have continued to decline for decades among all races and ethnicities, but the Hispanic population has seen an increase since 2013.
As a form of cardiovascular disease, stroke shares many of the same characteristics as heart disease. For instance, an ischemic stroke and coronary artery disease are both caused by plaque buildup in the arteries. If this buildup occurs in an artery that supplies blood to your heart, it results in a heart attack. If the buildup blocks an artery supplying blood to the brain, it causes an ischemic stroke.
Understanding risk factors and making some lifestyle modifications can help reduce your stroke risk.
A nutrient-rich diet makes a significant difference in overall health. But exercise matters too. Be sure to take some time to exercise—at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise weekly, with your medical provider’s guidance. The National Institute of Health recommends aiming for a body mass index between 18.5 and 24.9.
Stroke and heart disease also share many of the same risk factors, including:
Strokes can leave you permanently disabled, but many strokes are preventable and treatable. It is important to know how to act “FAST” when someone is having a stroke. Here are the signs and actions to take:
Face: One side of the person’s face droops when he or she is asked to smile.
Arms: One of the person’s arms drifts downward when he or she is asked to lift both arms.
Speech: The person’s speech is slurred or difficult to understand when he or she is asked to repeat a simple sentence.
Time: Call 911 immediately if you notice any of the above symptoms.
Some women may experience subtler symptoms that can be easier to miss. These may include:
A trip to the Emergency Room is never something we want to do, but when illnesses and injuries are life-threatening or severe, you want to be somewhere that is equipped to handle those life-threatening conditions. Touchette Regional Hospital’s Emergency Department is open 24/7 and prepared to treat and care for your emergent needs. For more information on Touchette Regional Hospital go to touchette.org.