Daily routines such as exercise and eating right might just help prevent getting strokes, which affect up to 75,000 people per year in the United States.
Strokes can happen to anyone, regardless of age, race, or gender. Not only are strokes the third leading cause of death in the U.S. but also the leading cause of long term disability in this country. In Montgomery County there are 2,500 strokes per year.
According to Circle of Rights Inc, a company formed to eliminate stroke, there are a few lifestyle changes that can help prevent strokes. "The importance of healthy living and avoiding bad habits that can lead to stroke, is important youth education," said Stroke coordinator at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital Corda Johnson.
Strokes stop blood and oxygen from flowing to the brain cells. Some symptoms include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arms, or the legs. Also, sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, or understanding.
Having blood pressure greater than 120/80 is dangerous because high blood pressure is a major cause of stroke. Salt intake should be less than 2400 milligrams a day. Cholesterol and diabetes should be under control. Exercise and blood circulation should be increased. Smoking should be eliminated and alcohol consumption should be controlled.
Additionally, there are different types of stokes. About 87% of strokes are ischemic strokes. These occur when a blood clot forms in the brain. Also, there are hemorrhagic strokes that happen when a blood vessel ruptures in or near the brain.
"[Hemorrhagic strokes] may come from anything that weakens blood vessels, such as Type II Diabetes," said Executive Director at Circle of Rights, Inc, Susan Hemery.
Everyone is at risk for having strokes. Some factors that contribute to having a stroke are things that cannot be controlled. For example, having family history of stroke, being diabetic, being over the age of 55, being an African American, and being a male are all factors that increase the chance of having a stroke. Having any of these factors makes it imperative to follow these lifestyle changes.
To join the fight against stroke and to learn more about stroke prevention visit www.stroke.org.
