Preventing Strokes: Habits to Avoid According to Stroke Doctors
Strokes are a leading cause of death and disability in the United States, as noted by the American Stroke Association. What’s even scarier is that many stroke risk factors are silent and go unnoticed until it’s too late, such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. However, it is possible to control and prevent strokes through lifestyle changes like exercise and a healthy diet. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 80% of strokes are preventable.
The experts who treat strokes understand the importance of risk reduction. Dr. Anthony Kim, a vascular neurologist and medical director of the University of California at San Francisco Stroke Center, takes a proactive approach to stroke prevention. He believes in preventing strokes before they occur.
Here are some habits that stroke doctors avoid and why you should avoid them too:
1. Sedentary Lifestyle
Dr. Arthur Wang, director of endovascular neurosurgery at Tulane University School of Medicine, highlights the risk of having a sedentary lifestyle. Spending too much time sitting or laying down without sufficient exercise increases the chances of stroke. Regular physical activity prevents the buildup of plaque in arteries and keeps blood vessels clog-free. Implementing 30 minutes of moderate exercise five times a week can involve activities like walking, running, biking, gardening, or joining a group workout class.
2. High Blood Pressure
According to Dr. Kim, high blood pressure is the most impactful risk factor for stroke. Eliminating high blood pressure from the population would result in 60% fewer strokes. It is essential to have regular check-ups to monitor and treat high blood pressure since it often goes unnoticed. Additionally, managing other risk factors that contribute to heart disease and stroke can also help reduce the risk.
3. Neglecting Regular Check-Ups
Wang emphasizes the importance of routine check-ups since many risk factors for strokes do not exhibit symptoms. By visiting your primary care doctor regularly, you can get screened for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and other risk factors. Your doctor can also assess other factors like gender, race, personal history, and family history of strokes to determine your risk.
4. Smoking
Both Dr. Kim and Dr. Wang advise against smoking since it significantly increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. Smoking causes the narrowing of blood vessels over time, leading to blockages that can cause strokes. Quitting smoking is crucial for stroke prevention.
5. Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol use is associated with a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. It is important to moderate alcohol consumption to reduce the risk. The CDC recommends that women limit their intake to one drink per day and men to two drinks per day. Excessive drinking can have detrimental effects on overall health, including stroke risk.
6. Poor Diet
A healthy diet plays a crucial role in managing stroke risk. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and moderate amounts of meat is recommended. Avoiding foods high in saturated fats, sugar, and salt can help reduce the risk of strokes. High salt intake is linked to high blood pressure, which is a significant stroke risk factor.
7. Ignoring Symptoms and Delaying Treatment
Recognizing symptoms of a stroke and seeking immediate treatment is vital. Stroke treatments are most effective when administered as soon as possible. The American Stroke Association advises using the acronym FAST to remember the signs of a stroke: facial drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, and time to call 9-1-1. Acting swiftly can prevent further damage and improve outcomes.
Remember, preventing strokes requires proactive measures and lifestyle changes. By avoiding these habits and prioritizing your health, you can significantly reduce your risk of strokes.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
