Can You Prevent a Stroke? Essential Insights and Tips
Understanding Stroke and Prevention
Stroke is a significant health concern, affecting thousands of New Zealanders each year. However, the good news is that many strokes are preventable through awareness and proactive measures. At Neuro Care, we aim to inform and support individuals in reducing their stroke risk effectively.
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is disrupted, causing brain cells to die. This can lead to permanent brain damage, disability, or death if not treated promptly. Strokes are classified into two main types:
Ischemic Stroke: Caused by blocked blood flow.
Hemorrhagic Stroke: Due to a burst blood vessel.
Common Risk Factors
High Blood Pressure: The leading cause of strokes. Regular monitoring and management can lower risk.
Smoking: Damages blood vessels and increases clot formation.
High Cholesterol: Can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, obstructing blood flow.
Diabetes: Increases stroke risk by damaging blood vessels.
Obesity: Often linked to high blood pressure and cholesterol.
Can You Prevent a Stroke?
Yes, up to 80% of strokes are preventable through lifestyle modifications and medical management.
Tips for Stroke Prevention
Monitor Blood Pressure: Regularly check and manage it with a healthy diet and medication if necessary.
Adopt a Healthy Diet: Incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and reduce salt and saturated fats.
Stay Active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Quit Smoking: This significantly reduces your stroke risk.
Limit Alcohol: Excessive alcohol can lead to high blood pressure and stroke.
Manage Chronic Conditions: Conditions like diabetes and atrial fibrillation (AF) should be carefully managed under medical guidance.
How Neuro Care Can Help
At Neuro Care, we provide personalised support, offering comprehensive wellness and neurological rehabilitation programmes designed to empower our clients. Our aim is to improve lifestyle factors and manage risk proactively to help prevent strokes and support overall brain health.