Most of us know someone who has had a stroke. Elderly relatives are often victims, but not always. There are things that can’t be changed, which make it even more important to take care of those which can.
Diet and Exercise: Staying physically fit is very important in stroke prevention. A good cardio exercise program and staying away from foods that clog the arteries is important. Talk to your doctor about what is safe for you to do in the exercise department. A nutritionist can help with a diet plan and a personal trainer can help prevent exercise related injuries.
Regular Checkups: Many things can cause a stroke, and some are very subtle. In order to find them, you need to be seen by the doctor on a regular basis. This is usually a minimum of once every six months. If you’ve already been diagnosed with a medical condition, you may need more frequent examinations.
Blood Pressure: Your blood pressure plays a major role in the risk factor department. High blood pressure can cause an artery to burst. That’s bad in any part of the body, but in the brain there isn’t anyplace for the blood to go.
Clotting Problems: Some of this is hereditary, some is caused by plaque in the arteries. In either case, doctors may prescribe blood thinners in the hopes of preventing a clot from forming. A clot can be formed anywhere in the body. If it breaks loose and lodges in the brain, a stroke will occur.
Medications: Some medications make a stroke more likely. A good example is a common decongestant found in over the counter cold and flu remedies. Others can help prevent them. Aspirin is a good example of prevention. It is an effective blood thinner. If the danger is great enough, stronger blood thinners may be required.
Moods: How you feel emotionally can increase your risk of a stroke. Anger and other negative emotions, especially felt over a long period of time, are the biggest risk factors. It’s hard to let go of a good “mad,” but it’s important for your health that you do.
If you feel you are at risk for a stroke, talk to your doctor. He or she can help you find the tools you need to reduce those factors…and relieve your mind.