Community Health Charities of Florida- February 2012

Tips on How to Prevent a Stroke

Up to 80 percent of all strokes can be prevented —start reducing your risk now.

 

This February, Community Health Charities joins National Stroke Association in raising awareness that you can reduce your stroke risk.  Although stroke can happen to anyone, certain risk factors can increase your chances of a stroke. Studies do show that up to 80 percent of strokes can be prevented by working with a healthcare professional to reduce personal risk. It is also important to manage your own personal risk and know how to recognize and respond to stroke signs and symptoms.

Stroke Prevention Guidelines

The following Stroke Prevention Guidelines will help you learn how you may be able to lower your risk for a first stroke.

The National Stroke Association's Stroke Prevention Advisory Board, an elite group of the nation's leading experts on stroke prevention, established the first Stroke Prevention Guidelines. They were published in a 1999 issue of Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) and have been updated to reflect current medical standards.

 

Like the National Stroke Association on Facebook and Follow them on Twitter

Talk to a healthcare professional and follow these guidelines.

Know your blood pressure (hypertension)

High blood pressure is a major stroke risk factor if left untreated. Have your blood pressure checked yearly by a doctor or at health fairs, a local pharmacy or supermarket or with an automatic blood pressure machine.

 

Identify atrial fibrillation (Afib)

Afib is an abnormal heartbeat that can increase stroke risk by 500%. Afib can cause blood to pool in the heart and may form a clot and cause a stroke. A doctor must diagnose and treat Afib.

 

Stop smoking

Smoking doubles the risk of stroke. It damages blood vessel walls, speeds up artery clogging, raises blood pressure and makes the heart work harder.

 

Control alcohol use

Alcohol use has been linked to stroke in many studies. Most doctors recommend not drinking or drinking only in moderation - no more than two drinks each day.

 

Know cholesterol levels

Cholesterol is a fatty substance in blood that is made by the body. It is also found in food.  High cholesterol levels can clog arteries and cause a stroke. See a doctor if your total cholesterol level is more than 200.

 

Control diabetes

Many people with diabetes have health problems that are also stroke risk factors. A doctor and dietician can help manage diabetes.

 

Manage exercise/diet

Excess weight strains the circulatory system. Exercise five times a week. Maintain a diet low in calories, salt, saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol. Eat five servings of fruits and vegetables daily.

 

Treat circulation problems

Fatty deposits can block arteries carrying blood to the brain and lead to a stroke. Other problems such as sickle cell disease or severe anemia should be treated.

 

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

A TIA is a temporary episode of stroke-like symptoms that can last a few minutes to 24 hours, but usually causes no permanent damage or disability. TIA and stroke symptoms are the same. Recognizing and treating a TIA can reduce stroke risk. Up to 40 percent of people who experience a TIA may have a stroke.

 

To help manage your personal risk, fill out this Stroke Risk Scorecard and discuss the results with a healthcare professional.

 

Source: National Stroke Association