Stroke Risk Factors
Stroke Risk Factors
It’s important to know the risk factors for stroke so you can be prepared in case symptoms present themselves.
The most common risk factors include
Obesity
Sedentary lifestyles
Excessive alcohol intake
Using illegal drugs like cocaine or methamphetamines
Smoking or secondhand smoke exposure
Diabetes
High blood pressure or cholesterol
Sleep apnea
Heart disease
Genetics or family history
Using hormone medications or therapies
Certain types of people are also more at risk than others.
These include:
- Those over age 55
- Men
- African-AmericansPregnant or menopausal women
10 Signs Someone is Having a Stroke
Recognizing the signs of a stroke is crucial to intervention and treatment.
The most common signs that a stroke is happening or is imminent include:
Trouble speaking or comprehending.
If someone can’t understand what you’re saying, or they suddenly start speaking nonsense, it could be a stroke.
Numbness or paralysis.
This typically occurs on one side of the body, usually in the face, arm, or leg.
Ask the person to raise their arms above their head or to smile.
If something seems lopsided, act immediately.
Vision problems.
Sudden blurred or dimmed vision in one or both eyes is another clear sign.
Intense headache.
These extreme pains are often compared to a migraine.
Dizziness.
Passing out is also possible.
Nausea.
Vomiting can also occur.
Sudden loss of coordination.
Keep an eye out for stumbling, tripping, or difficulty walking.
Behavioral changes.
Look out for completely random mood swings.
Stiff muscles.
You might also feel weird sensations, like pins and needles or numbness.
Problems swallowing or breathing.
What to Do If Someone Is Having a Stroke
If you experience any of the above signs of a stroke, however brief, get medical care immediately.
A doctor should evaluate you to make sure you’re not suffering from high blood pressure, blockages, or clots.
If you’re around someone who has any of the symptoms of a stroke – even if you think it’s an overreaction – you need to act FAST.
FAST is an acronym designed to help people understand the signs of a stroke and how to respond.
This is a quick way to identify and react to a stroke:
F: Face: Someone’s face droops or doesn’t have a normal facial expression, especially on one side only.
A: Arms: One arm seems to be affected and cannot be raised or used normally.
S: Speech: Speech may be slurred, nonsensical, or confused.
T: Time: Time is of the essence, so call 000 immediately.
Even if it turns out to be a “ministroke”, emergency medical care is essential for prevention and safety.
How to Prevent a Stroke
While we can’t control our genetics, there are certain risk factors that we can get under control. Here are the best ways to decrease your risk of a stroke.
Address High Blood Pressure:
If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about the right combination of diet, exercise, or medication you need to get to the root of the problem.
Cutting back on alcohol and sodium can also help dramatically.
Lose Weight:
Being overweight or obese can cause health problems, including an increased risk of stroke or heart attack.
When you lose weight, you take some of the risky pressure off the arteries and veins. (13)
Get Diabetes in Check:
Uncontrolled diabetes can be a key trigger for blood pressure and weight gain, which are two main risk factors for a stroke.
A healthy diet and regular exercise can rein in glucose and insulin, decreasing the odds of diabetic triggers for things like heart disease and strokes.
Quit Smoking:
Tobacco use also increases the risk of a stroke.
Work towards quitting to lower your chances of having one. (15)
Drink Less:
While drinking in moderation may be okay for some, regular or heavy intake of alcohol increases the risk of stroke and other health problems.
Keep in mind that some people are more sensitive to alcohol than others, including those with certain genetic mutations or histamine problems.
Eat a Healthy Diet:
Get plenty of fresh, organic vegetables, fruits, and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats to boost your health and decrease your odds of having a stroke.
Aim for at least five servings a day.
Exercise:
There’s no way around it: exercise is a crucial aspect of physical health.
Exercise will also help to reduce inflammation, cardio workouts, in particular, help to keep veins and arteries healthy and could lower the odds of having a stroke.
The Bottom Line
It’s important to know the signs of a stroke so you can save yourself or a loved one.
Remember that time is of the essence, so act quickly when you see the telltale signs.
In the meantime, it helps to get your risk factors under control.
Keep your weight in check, quit (or try to moderate) drinking and smoking, and manage your diabetes and high blood pressure in order to reduce your risk of having a stroke.
Ready to reduce your stroke risk factors? Here are seven healthy foods that fight high blood pressure naturally, and delicious kale recipes to give your health a boost.
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From < https://blog.paleohacks.com/signs-of-a-stroke/>
About Aimee McNew
Aimee McNew is a Certified Nutritionist who specializes in women’s health, thyroid problems, infertility, and digestive wellness. She ate her way back to health using a Paleo diet, lost 80 pounds, and had a healthy baby after numerous miscarriages. She focuses on simple nutrition practices that promote long-lasting results.
For more posts by Aimee, click here.
About Aimee McNew
Aimee McNew is a Certified Nutritionist who specializes in women’s health, thyroid problems, infertility, and digestive wellness. She ate her way back to health using a Paleo diet, lost 80 pounds, and had a healthy baby after numerous miscarriages. She focuses on simple nutrition practices that promote long-lasting results.
For more posts by Aimee, click here.
