Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and even death in the United States. It can happen to anyone, at any age or time. It is essential to know the warning signs to prevent severe cases. When you have a stroke, your brain isn’t getting the blood it needs. You need treatment right away to lower your chances of brain damage, disability, or even death. Knowing the signs and symptoms of stroke, you can take quick action and perhaps save a life.
Warning Signs of Stroke in Men and Women
- Sudden numbness in the face, leg arm, or on one side of the body
- Weakness
- Sudden confusion
- Trouble in speaking and difficulty in breathing
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
- Sudden trouble walking and dizziness
- Loss of balance and lack of coordination
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
Take note of the FAST technique to manage sudden stroke attacks and call 911 immediately.
F- Face. Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
A-Arms. Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S-Speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is the speech slurred or strange?
T- Time. If you see any of these signs, call 9-1-1 right away.
Three Types of Stroke
- Ischemic stroke. This is the most common type of stroke and it happens when the brain’s blood vessels become narrowed or blocked, causing severely reduced blood flow. Fat deposits in blood vessels can also cause them.
- Hemorrhagic stroke. Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or ruptures. Hemorrhagic strokes are caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure, excessive blood thinner consumption, trauma, and Ischemic strokes that result in hemorrhaging.
- Transient ischemic attack. A transient ischemic attack is a temporary period of symptoms similar to those of a stroke. Similar to an ischemic stroke, a TIA occurs when clots or debris cut off blood flow to the nervous system.
Risk Factors of Stroke
Obesity and an inactive lifestyle increase your risk of stroke. In addition to diabetes mellitus, hypertension, atrial fibrillation, and obstructive sleep apnea, obesity increases the risk of stroke through several distinct mechanisms. Atherosclerosis and thromboembolism may be the end result, leading to arterial occlusions or ruptures.
Managing Stroke Patients
Most stroke survivors go to a rehabilitation program. According to your age, overall health, and stroke degree of disability, your physician will recommend you the most intensive therapy program. Depending on your lifestyle and priorities, your doctor may consult with family or other caregivers.
Stroke Prevention and Considering the HCG Diet
Obesity is a high risk of having a stroke so, dealing with your excess weight may reduce your risk of stroke and other diseases. Stave off some weight through the HCG Diet. It promotes eating less cholesterol and fat, especially saturated fat and trans fats, which may reduce buildup in the arteries. The HCG Diet is a regimen containing five or more daily servings of fruits or vegetables that may reduce the risk of stroke.