Reducing Your Risk of Stroke

Definition/Cause.  Sometimes referred to as a “brain attack,” a stroke occurs when the blood flow to the brain is blocked.  There are 2 different types of stroke.  An ischemic stoke occurs when the arteries to the brain are blocked by plaques.  Less common, though more dangerous, hemorrhagic strokes occur when a blood vessel in the brain breaks and leaks blood.  Hemorrhagic strokes may be caused by hypertension, overuse of blood thinners, a fall, or an aneurysm.

A transient ischemic attack, also knows as a TIA or “mini stroke,” occurs when blood flow is blocked only temporarily and there is not any lasting brain damage.  Having had a TIA in the past increases your risk of having a true stroke in the future.

Risk factors.  Risk factors for stroke include smoking, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, lack of physical activity, obesity, an irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation),  and a family history of stroke.

Symptoms.  Potential signs of stroke include trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, confusion, trouble speaking, blurred vision, feeling numb or weak in the face, arm, or leg, and sudden severe headache.

Act FAST.  If someone you know begins to show signs of stroke, remember the FAST acronym:

• F(ace) – Ask the person to smile.  Does one side of their face droop?
• A(rms) – Ask the person to raise both arms.  Are they only able to lift one side?
• S(peech) – Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.  Are their words slurred?
• T(ime) – Remember when dealing with a possible stroke, time is of the upmost importance.  For every minute someone is experiencing a stroke, 2 million brain cells die.  Those damaged brain cells cannot be repaired or replaced.  Additionally, the clot buster used for stroke treatment can only be used within 90 minutes of the first sign of stroke.  If you observe any of the signs above, call 911 immediately.  Recognizing symptoms and acting FAST can save a life or limit long-term disabilities.

Long-term complications.  Potential long-term effects of stroke may include difficulty speaking or swallowing, memory loss, cognitive deficits, pain, changes in behavior or emotion regulation, paralysis, and loss of ability to care for oneself.

Prevention.  High blood pressure is the most important risk factor for stroke, so it is important that you get your blood pressure checked regularly.  If you have been diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, and/or hyperlipidemia, be sure to take your medications as prescribed by your doctor.  If you are a smoker, consider quitting.  Drink only in moderation.  Strive for at least 150 minutes of mild-to-moderate exercise each week.  Try to make healthy food choices and limit your intake of sodium, cholesterol, and fats.  Also make efforts to manage your stress and get adequate sleep.