Stroke
Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, leading to brain damage. South Asians are at a higher risk of stroke.
Complications
Stroke is the 5th leading cause of death and number 1 cause of disability in the US.
Who is at Risk?
- Poor Diet
- Lack of physical activity
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Obesity (BMI 23 or higher for South Asians)
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Family History
- Carotid or other artery disease
- Peripheral artery disease
- Atrial Fibrillation
- Sickle cell diseases
What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Stroke?
The signs and symptoms of a stroke typically begin suddenly and can include the following:
- Sudden numbness of weakness
Especially on one side of the body (face, arm, or leg).
- Sudden confusion or trouble speaking
Difficulty understanding speech or slurred speech.
- Sudden vision problems
Trouble seeing in one or both eyes, blurred or blackened vision.
- Sudden trouble walking
Dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.
Can Strokes be Treated?
- Yes, the damage from a stroke can be limited or even reversed, but ONLY if you come soon enough
- For clotting stroke, a medicine called IV tPA can be offered to you if you present within 4.5 hours of your symptoms. A procedure to take out the clot in your brain can also be offered if you present within 24 hours of your symptoms.
- For bleeding stroke, brain surgery might be needed.
Prevention
- Lifestyle modifications will help you reduce your risk of stroke.
- Diet with more fruits and vegetables, nuts, and lean meat
- Be socially active
- Get enough sleep
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise at least 150 minutes per week
- Medications, in addition to lifestyle modifications, are necessary to:
- Control blood pressure
- Control cholesterol levels
- Control blood sugar levels
- Keep your blood thin
Consult your doctor before using any alternative therapies. Sometimes, even “natural” remedies can interact with your prescribed medications. DO NOT stop your medications without discussing with your doctor first!
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References
- American Heart Association
- American Stroke Association
- Stroke Support Association