Strokes

Strokes are the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. An interruption, or lack of blood flow, to an individual’s brain is the main cause of death. Different names such as Cerebrovascular accidents (CVA) and/or an apoplexy mean the same thing as a stroke and can be divided into two categories: Ischemic and Hemorrhagic strokes.

An ischemic stroke is a plaque or blockage to any major artery leading to the brain, such as the carotid artery. This plaque slowly builds up in the artery and deprives the brain from oxygen due to the lack of blood flow.

A hemorrhage is a rupture of an artery – bleeding in the brain. High blood pressure and trauma are the two leading causes. Similar to a heart attack, strokes have a plethora of factors that can be avoided.

Understanding the risk factors strongly increases the chances of offsetting or completely preventing a stroke. According to Dr. McElroy, a medical physician and host of Sawbones podcasts, stated that “80% of strokes are preventable if one takes the proper steps in changing their behavior.” Modifications to one’s lifestyle in combination with the elimination of any harmful habits is a patients best option to consider.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of stroke is vital in preventing an apoplexy. First and most important thing mentioned was the risk of smoking on a patient susceptible to a stroke. As with everything and anything, smoking is always dangerous segway to multiple diseases, cancers and inevitably death. Therefore, quitting smoking alone could offset the potential of a stroke by miles.

Other lifestyle suggestions include eating a healthier diet, exercising regularly and sleeping well. Eating leaner meats, substituting white bread with whole wheat bread and incorporating fruits will likely prevent atherosclerosis, plaque in major arteries. Dr. McElroy also emphasized on the importance of exercising regularly. Physical activity is good for one’s cardiovascular system to efficiently be able to supply the brain, body and lungs with oxygenated blood. Sleep is vital for ones cognitive and motor control patterns.

Your biggest take away is that strokes could be prevented when taken the right steps. It is key to understand and know the signs and symptoms of a stroke to take quick actions and prevent a case of death. Furthermore, if you witness anyone that may be experincing a sudden stroke, one must ACT IMMEDIATELY. An excellent acronym to keep in mind when facing an individual that is having a stroke is FAST.

F – for facial drooping, an asymmetrical face where the corner of their mouth is drooping.

A – for Arm drop test

S – for speech slers and,

T – for time.

In conclusion, if you or are loved one is at risk of getting a stroke then it is extremely important to start implementing healthier habits in your/their daily life before it is too late. Without proper precautions one may end up in the hospital getting a thrombectomy, a surgical procedure that goes into the brain with blood thinners to remove the clot. An extremely high risk procedure that could possibly harm the proper functions of talk, walk and motor control.

Remember that the longer the brain cells are deprived from oxygenated blood flow, the more serious the damage of a stroke will be. Act fast and do not hesitate to call a professional for help. Suffice it to say, strokes do not require any overthought. Prevent it before it occurs through manipulating your personal behavior and daily activities.