May is National Stroke Awareness Month. For this incredible month, health organizations across the globe like the NIH, CDC, SOPHE (Society for Public Health and Education), and more team up to help educate the public on stroke risk factors and warning signs.
Our mission at Foundational Homecare is to provide your family with the knowledge and support they need to help maintain the health and comfort of loved ones. This means learning to prevent strokes, understanding when to take action, and how to navigate the long road to recovery.
Though many of us understand how debilitating and life-threatening a stroke can be, we may not understand the medical science behind a stroke. In fact, there are many different types of strokes that all require different treatment. In short, however, a stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or cut off, thus damaging the brain. Since our brains are the organ responsible for our thoughts, feelings, and functioning, strokes can be incredibly dangerous. The good news is that 80% of all strokes are preventable (SOPHE.org).
Preventing a stroke begins with leading a healthy lifestyle today. The American Heart Association has developed the Simple 7 lifestyle changes you can implement to reduce the risk of stroke.
The higher your blood pressure is and the longer it’s been that way, the more strain you’re putting on your heart, arteries, and veins. Since cardiovascular damage can lead to stroke, keeping your blood pressure in a healthy range is a great place to start. If you’re looking for ways to manage your blood pressure, try:
Too much of the wrong kind of cholesterol can cause plaque to build up in your arteries. This is called atherosclerosis. Like with high blood pressure, this can put extra strain on your heart and vascular system. One of the best ways to get your cholesterol under control is with your diet.
Choose foods with fewer saturated and trans fats and instead opt for heart-healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids like those found in fish and avocados. Whole grains rich in fiber are also great for managing cholesterol. Swapping out a few items on your shopping list for heart-healthy items could have a lasting impact when it comes to stroke recovery.
Speaking of food, the food we eat is converted into glucose, so our bodies can use it as energy. While it’s important to have enough glucose to fuel ourselves, high blood sugar can damage our cardiovascular system and even our eyes.
The benefits of exercise are endless. Not only can regular exercise improve your mood and improve muscle tone, but it can also promote your cardiovascular health and reduce your risk of stroke. Even better, exercise doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym. Take a dance class, rent a kayak for the afternoon, and play a few extra rounds of fetch with your four-legged friend. Those who lead active lifestyles tend to lead healthier lives.
As we’ve mentioned, eating healthy is a great way to take care of your cardiovascular system helping you feel better and reducing the likelihood of a stroke. Getting enough vegetables, fiber, and good fats is key to your health.
Like eating well, maintaining a healthy weight ties into many of these lifestyle factors. On top of being fit and eating a balanced diet, carrying less extra weight (which may look different for everyone) helps reduce the amount of strain, work, and pressure you’re putting on your body.
If you’re a smoker, quitting could be one of the best things you could do for yourself. We understand that it’s an incredibly tough habit to break, but by damaging your lungs and heart with tobacco, nicotine, and smoke, you increase your chances of a stroke.
Beyond living a healthy lifestyle, there are other considerations to keep in mind when it comes to stroke prevention.
You’ve Already Had a Stroke – Since 1 in 4 strokes occurs in someone who has already had a stroke, getting proper care and adhering to the guidelines set by your doctor is essential to prevent a secondary stroke. That means adjusting your home to prevent falls, taking medication as directed, sticking with prescribed rehab, and everything in between.
You’re 55 or Older – Though strokes can occur in anyone at any age, these lifestyle factors become exponentially more important as we grow older. Plus, each of the Simple 7 is interconnected, and improving one also improves other aspects of your health, helping you live an overall happier, healthier, longer life.
Your Heart Requires Extra Attention – Whether it’s a congenital abnormality or a history of TIA, if you’re already taking extra care of your heart, it’s important to understand your increased risk for stroke.
You Partake in Illegal Drugs or Excessively Use Alcohol – If this describes you, your risk factors are compounded by drugs and alcohol. Cutting back or quitting altogether can help improve your health. If this seems impossible, don’t be afraid to seek additional help and support.
You’ve probably heard of the acronym F.A.S.T. when it comes to recognizing symptoms of a stroke. But do you know what each letter means or what steps to take next? The earlier a stroke is recognized and the sooner someone can get help, the better their odds are for treatment and recovery. So, let’s revisit the F.A.S.T. acronym.
F – Facial Drooping
A – Arm Weakness
S – Speech Difficulty
T – Time to Call for Help
If you notice any of these in a loved one or yourself, it’s time to call 9-1-1. You mustn’t wait.
Each stroke survivor is unique, and so is their road to recovery. Regardless, stroke recovery is easy. What’s important to know is that you and your family are not alone. Whether you need someone to help with basic tasks like feeding and getting into bed, or you need a helping hand that’s always at the ready, or even if you as a caretaker just need an opportunity to rest and recharge, Foundational Home Care is here for you. Even more, our trained caretakers are trained to help maintain a healthy lifestyle to keep strokes at bay and recognize strokes as soon as they occur.
Interested in finding some support for your family? Talk to our care team today for a free in-home consultation.
We want to be an active partner in your care. We don’t “take over,” because you’re the CEO of your care.
We want to do what you need and want us to do. Help you live your life, to do what you enjoy.
(617) 676-2008
