According to the American Stroke Association, a stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. It occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts, preventing blood (and oxygen) flow.
Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States. Yet, up to 80% of strokes can be prevented through proactive measures and lifestyle changes.
There are three primary types of strokes:
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a “mini-stroke,” a TIA occurs when a temporary blockage limits blood flow to the brain for a short period. While symptoms resolve within minutes to hours, a TIA is a warning sign of a future stroke, with up to half of strokes occurring within two days of a TIA. Immediate medical attention and preventive measures are crucial.
Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common type, accounting for about 87% of all strokes. It occurs when a blood clot blocks or narrows a blood vessel, reducing blood flow to the brain. Treatment focuses on restoring blood flow through clot-busting medications like tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) or mechanical thrombectomy.
Hemorrhagic Stroke: This type results from a blood vessel in the brain leaking or rupturing, leading to bleeding in or around the brain. Common causes include high blood pressure, aneurysms, and trauma. Treatment aims to control bleeding, reduce pressure on the brain, and prevent further complications.
Recognize the Symptoms
The symptoms of a stroke depend on where in the brain they occur and the intensity of the event. Common signs include sudden numbness or loss of movement, especially if it affects only one side of your body. Other indicators are mental confusion, headaches, or trouble with vision, speaking, or balance.
We commonly educate our patients to use the acronym F.A.S.T. to detect stroke and take fast action. F is for facial drooping, A is for arm weakness, S is for slurred speech, and T for time to call 911. Though it has become more difficult to recognize stroke symptoms with the wearing of face masks/coverings, we must be all the more vigilant in quick identification and treatment.
Know Your Risk Factors
Some stroke risk factors are beyond your control, including:
- Age (risk increases after age 55)
- Family history
- Gender (men have a higher risk)
- Ethnicity (African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians are at higher risk)
However, many risk factors can be managed through lifestyle changes, such as:
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Managing chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet.
Preventing & Treating Strokes
Seek emergency care: The first hours after a stroke are critical. Immediate medical attention can minimize brain damage and improve outcomes. Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.
Work with your healthcare provider: Treatment may include medications, lifestyle adjustments, and in some cases, surgical interventions to prevent further strokes.
Lifestyle Changes for Stroke Prevention
- Quit smoking: Tobacco use significantly increases stroke risk. Resources like the American Lung Association can help with smoking cessation.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity contributes to high blood pressure and diabetes, which are stroke risk factors. Adopting a balanced diet can help with weight management.
- Exercise regularly: Engaging in physical activity for at least 150 minutes per week strengthens the cardiovascular system and lowers stroke risk.
- Eat a heart-healthy diet: Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support brain and cardiovascular health.
- Limit alcohol intake: Excessive drinking raises blood pressure and contributes to stroke risk. Guidelines suggest up to one drink per day for women and two for men.
Prompt medical treatment and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle are key to reducing the risk of stroke and improving recovery outcomes. Staying informed and taking proactive steps can protect you and your loved ones from this life-altering condition.
