In the United States, stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and death. Strokes occur when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die.

According to the American Stroke Association, the effects of a stroke depend on the area of the brain that was damaged. A stroke on the left side of the brain may result in speech and language difficulties, reading and writing difficulties or problems with reasoning or analyzing situations. A stroke on the right side of the brain may cause impaired depth perception, the inability to make or appreciate art or music and the failure to recognize someone’s voice tone or emotion.

You can take action to prevent a stroke. “Individuals have control over many of the factors that increase their risk for stroke,” said Ashley McConnell, BSN, RN, Aultman stroke coordinator. “No matter your age, it is important to meet with a healthcare provider about how to control your specific modifiable risk factors for stroke.”

These risk factors include high blood pressure, tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, obesity, high cholesterol, high blood sugar levels and lack of physical activity. Atrial fibrillation and sleep apnea also can be managed.

According to McConnell, your provider may talk with you about taking the following actions, depending on your specific risk factors:

• Manage high blood pressure. According to the American Heart Association, high blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke and the most significant controllable risk factor. Optimal blood pressure is 120/80.
• Stop smoking or vaping. Smoking doubles your risk for stroke.
• Don’t consume excess alcohol.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Exercise daily.
• Manage your cholesterol.
• Manage your blood glucose if you are diabetic.

If you have atrial fibrillation, work with your doctor to manage your irregular heart rhythm. People with atrial fibrillation are five times more likely to have a stroke.

Your provider can also discuss a treatment plan for sleep apnea.

For more details on stroke symptoms, see Aultman’s blog post on the warning signs of a stroke or visit the American Stroke Association’s website.

If you are looking for a primary care provider, visit AultmanDocs.com to find a provider in your community.

Sources:
Aultman Health System
American Stroke Association