Preventing Stroke
Stroke (or cerebrovascular accident) is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. However, the good news is that 80% of all strokes can be prevented through lifestyle and proactive healthcare. Understanding stroke is the first and most crucial step to protecting yourself and your family.
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or significantly reduced, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. These cells begin to die within minutes.
There are 2 main types of stroke:
Ischemic Stroke (accounts for ~85%): Occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain.
Hemorrhagic Stroke (accounts for ~15%): Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding within the brain.
There is also a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), or a "mini-stroke," which is a temporary blockage and an extremely important warning sign of an impending major stroke.
Time is brain. Early recognition and timely intervention within the "golden hour" (the first 3-6 hours) can save lives and minimize disability. Remember the F.A.S.T acronym:
F (Face): Facial drooping, uneven smile, one side of the mouth sags.
A (Arm): Weakness or numbness in one arm/leg. Inability to raise both arms evenly or one arm drifts downward.
S (Speech): Slurred speech, difficulty speaking, stuttering, or inability to understand others.
T (Time): Immediately call emergency services 115 or go to the nearest hospital if any of these signs appear.
Other possible symptoms:
Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination.
Sudden, severe headache with no known cause.
Blurred or lost vision suddenly in one or both eyes.
Preventing stroke is based on controlling risk factors. Here are the 5 main pillars:
1. Manage Underlying Medical Conditions
High Blood Pressure: The number one enemy causing stroke. Monitor blood pressure regularly and take medication consistently as prescribed by a doctor.
Diabetes: High blood sugar damages blood vessels. Manage your diet and medication to keep blood sugar stable.
High Cholesterol: High levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) form plaques that narrow arteries. Get regular blood tests.
Heart Disease: Particularly atrial fibrillation (heart rhythm disorder), which easily forms blood clots that can travel to the brain.
2. Build a Healthy Diet
Reduce Salt: A high-salt diet increases blood pressure. Limit intake to less than 5g per day.
Reduce Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates.
Increase intake of green vegetables and fresh fruits rich in fiber and vitamins.
Prioritize healthy fats from fatty fish (salmon, tuna), nuts, and vegetable oils.
Limit fast food, fried food, animal fat, and organ meats.
3. Maintain an Active Lifestyle and Exercise Regularly
Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day with suitable activities like brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling.
Maintain a healthy weight; lose weight if overweight or obese (Body Mass Index BMI > 23).
Avoid sitting for too long.
4. Avoid Harmful Habits
Do Not Smoke: Tobacco damages blood vessel walls and increases the risk of blood clots.
Limit Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption raises blood pressure and the risk of stroke.
Avoid prolonged stress: Find ways to relax such as meditation, listening to music, or talking with loved ones.
5. Get Regular Health Check-ups
Get a general health check-up at least 1-2 times a year, especially for those over 40 or with risk factors.
Screen for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol for early intervention.
A stroke can happen to anyone, but the power of prevention lies in our hands. By changing our lifestyle, managing chronic conditions well, and knowing the warning signs, everyone can become a "strong shield" protecting their own health and that of their loved ones.
Khanh An Clinic is the leading medical provider of physiotherapy and treatment for patients with various musculoskeletal conditions. We are dedicated to helping patients restore their full body function and achieve lasting recovery.
