Are You at Risk for a Stroke?

Think you are not at risk for a stroke. Think again.

Risk Factors for Stroke

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Carotid Artery disease
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• High Blood-fat levels (LDL and triglycerides)
• Obesity
• Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• Silent Inflammation
• Alcohol abuse
• Smoking

[iconbox title=”Fact” icon=”Globe.png”]Stroke ranks as the third leading killer in America. Each year more than 700,000 have a stroke with about 160,000 dying from stroke-related causes.[/iconbox]

Source: Medicinenet.com/stroke_prevention

5 Major Signs of Stroke

Stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. Without oxygen-rich blood, brain cells begin to die. If the blood supply is not restored, the affected part of the brain dies, causing disability or death. Seek immediate emergency care if you experience any of these signs of stroke:

[dropcap1]1[/dropcap1]Sudden numbness of the face, arm, or leg especially on one side of the body

[dropcap1]2[/dropcap1]Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or drooling

[dropcap1]3[/dropcap1]Trouble seeing in one or both eyes

[dropcap1]4[/dropcap1]Sudden trouble walking, dizziness and loss of balance

[dropcap1]5[/dropcap1]Sudden severe headache

Personal Connection to Stroke

Over the years I’ve known a few close friends and family members who have suffered massive strokes.  I remember growing up my grandpa Philip; my Dad’s father lived in a nursing home because he was unable to walk. His mind was still sharp though! We would bring his favorite Hershey chocolate kisses to visits! My Dad had a few mini-strokes and the doctors thought my mom passed from a stroke in 2010. Having a family history can increase your risk for stroke. However with obesity rising in America our unhealthy lifestyle seems to play a larger role in today’s society.

[box type=”info”]Tip: Normal blood pressure is 120/80. Schedule an annual prevention checkup with your doctor and discuss any lifestyle changes necessary to maintain normal numbers.[/box]

Prevent a Stroke with Lifestyle Changes

• Help prevent a stroke by learning more about the risk factors that you can do something about.
• Increase physical activity – be active 3 to 4 times a week
• Maintain a healthy weight – fill your place with greens and whole foods
• Reduce consumption of red meat for lower blood fat
• Limit alcohol consumption – to 1-2 drinks a week
• Reduce sodium and salt intake – read food labels and skip the salt shaker
• Increase potassium – consume dark leafy greens, avocados and beans
• Reduce stress – try yoga and meditation
• Stop smoking!

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Slideshow: A Visual Guide to Understanding Stroke

 

Resource:  American Stroke Association

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Questions/Comments

What’s your action plan to reduce your stroke risk today? Please comment and share below.

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