Tips to help prevent a stroke

Few of us stop to think about the importance of blood flow in the body and how this seemingly simple process works. Yet one of the devastating consequences of blood flow stoppage is a stroke. It can happen quickly and be fatal.

In the simplest of terms, a stroke happens when blood stops flowing to the brain. And this can happen in a second. This second can prove fatal though, because blood carries oxygen, amongst other important substances, that nourish and feed the brain and keep it functioning.

Just as we need oxygen to survive, the brain needs adequate blood flow. It’s a scary reality, but the onset of a stroke is so swift and potentially fatal that brain cells can begin to die in just minutes. There’s no two ways about it – a stroke is a medical emergency, and the person must get immediate medical help to prevent brain damage or worse. 

Am I at risk for a stroke?

It would be helpful if there were clear-cut indicators and risk factors so we’d all know exactly what steps to take to avoid a stroke. Unfortunately, even a person in excellent health could suffer a stroke. That said, there are a few medical certainties that may increase your risk.

Recent research shows a link to high risk for a stroke if you are a moderate to heavy alcohol drinker. This is because excessive alcohol intake can result in a condition called atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), which in turn increases your risk for a stroke.

Other risk factors include hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes and smoking. Obesity is also a possible risk factor, and while strokes affect more adults, even young children are in danger. 

Prevention is better than cure

The big-picture solution is simple: live as healthy a lifestyle as possible. This means quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol, exercising regularly and cleaning up your diet.

• Managing your blood pressure is a big part of preventing a stroke. The ideal numbers are 120/80 but check with your doctor as well. Be proactive by being fastidious with your salt intake. Excessive salt is a major high blood pressure culprit.

• If you’re still skipping your vegetables, you’re doing your body, mind and health a huge disservice. Vegetables, especially dark-green varieties (spinach, kale, broccoli), contain many essential nutrients and vitamins that help the body thrive and keep all those vital internal processes happy. Foods that are high in potassium may also help maintain a healthy blood pressure. Include sweet potatoes, bananas, prunes and melons in your diet.

• If you do have bouts of irregular heartbeat, see your doctor as soon as possible. Left untreated, this can quickly escalate to a stroke. 

Don’t ignore these signs!

According to a study in Stroke, the journal of the American Stroke Association, 30% of adults under the age of 45 aren't aware of the early warning signs. Watch for:

• Facial or limb numbness
• Loss of balance/dizziness
• Difficulty speaking
• Limited vision
• Painful headache
• Confusion

Get to a doctor immediately or call for assistance.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.