Stopping Strokes In Their Tracks

By Nneka O. Ezunagu, CRNP

UM Prince George's Hospital Center

. https://www.umms.org/

More Heart Disease, Stroke and Diabetes Articles

Stopping Strokes In Their Tracks

In the United States, most people are unaware that stroke is the fifth leading cause of death. In fact, stroke affects 800,000 people in America each year and it is the leading cause of disability in the U.S.

Even though the U.S. has a high incidence of stroke, up to 80% of strokes are preventable, according to the National Stroke Association. Because having a stroke can happen to anyone at any time, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of stroke, but also to implement lifestyle changes to prevent its occurrence.

A stroke is a “brain attack,” and can come in two forms. The first is “ischemic,” in which a clot obstructs blood flow to the brain. This occurs 80% of the time and leads to disabilities. The second type of stroke is “hemorrahagic,” which is when a blood vessel ruptures, preventing blood flow to the brain. This type proves to be more deadly.

Risk Factors of Stroke

A variety of risk factors increase the chance of stroke and it's important to know your numbers.

High Blood Pressure consistently above 150/90 for ages 60+; 140/90 for those under 60.

Obesity Body Mass Index above 30, depending on age and height

Age men 55+; women 65+.

Cholesterol above 200; LDL above 100.

Race African Americans are twice as likely to have a first stroke.

Smoking increases chance of stroke by 2x.

Warning Signs for Stroke

To remember the warning signs for stroke, keep FAST in mind.

Facial droop

Arm drifting or sudden weakness in one arm

Speech that becomes slurred or unclear

Time call 911 immediately

If any warning signs become present, call 911 immediately. Signs and symptoms must be taken seriously. There is a window of 3-4.5 hours during which medication must be administered, following a stroke, to give the patient the best chance for survival.

Stroke Prevention

Preventing the chance for a stroke requires lifetime modification of a variety of activities, including diet, exercise, health management, and medication compliance.

Diet is important to lessen the clogging of arteries, which compromises the blood flow to the brain and may cause a stroke. Eating a healthy diet of fruit and vegetables and limiting saturated fats and fried foods will go a long way to reduce the risk of stroke.

Exercise is key to keep the blood flowing. Participating in some form of cardiovascular exercise brisk walking, running, swimming, for example is recommended 4-5 times a week.

Smoking is more inclined to trigger a hemorrahagic stroke as it makes arteries weaker and less elastic, causes internal bleeding and makes the blood thinner and easier to clot.

Managing conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes are essential. All can contribute to stroke risk if not managed properly. This includes taking medications as indicated by your primary care physician as well as regular follow-ups to keep these conditions under control.

For more information about stroke, be sure to check with your primary care physician.