Did you know that 80% of all strokes can be prevented? Strokes have the reputation of randomly striking out of nowhere. But you have more control to prevent strokes from happening than you might think. Here are our top ten prevention tips.

1. Stay active. Whether that means taking the stairs instead of the elevator or joining a Zumba class after work, increased physical activity will assist with weight loss, reduce your cholesterol levels, and keep your arteries clear of blockages.

2. Stop smoking. Smoking actually doubles your risk for stroke by weakening blood vessels and increasing your blood pressure. Schedule an appointment with your doctor today to learn about ways to quit.

3. Eat a healthy diet. By cutting back saturated fats and increasing your fruit and vegetable intake, you will lose weight, clear your blood vessels and put less strain on your circulatory system.

4. Have your cholesterol level checked regularly. By becoming more aware of your cholesterol, you will understand your risk for stroke and the effect diet has on your levels.

5. Limit alcohol use. Alcohol use can raise your blood pressure and potentially harden your arteries.

6. Manage your diabetes. Sufferers often have high blood pressure and high cholesterol thanks to increased levels of blood sugar.

7. Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight will strain your circulatory system, increase your blood pressure, and put you at a higher risk for diabetes.

8. Monitor your blood pressure. Be sure you are aware of your blood pressure and have it treated if it is too high. High blood pressure greatly increases your chances of having a stroke.

9. Know your family history. If there is a history of stroke in your family, your chances of having one increase. It should be noted that your age, gender, race, and ethnicity statistically either increase or decrease your chances of stroke also.

10. Talk to your health care provider. The more proactive you are about your health and diet, the lower your risk of stroke will be. Your health care provider can help you map out an effective way to apply all of these prevention techniques in your daily life.

University Hospital is committed to preventative health care for its community. If you have any questions about stroke prevention or if you need a physician referral, please call 1-866-442-2362. To learn more about the services we offer at University Hospital, please visit our website.

Sources:
Stroke Prevention (National Stroke Association)
Stroke (CDC)

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If someone close to you has suffered a stroke, you may be expected to participate in their recovery. Your assistance could range from helping make their daily life more livable or you could be part of your loved one’s regular rehabilitation to relearn basic functions. However you participate in their recovery, you will need to adjust to these new expectations with the aid of support and outside resources.

Emotional Support for Stroke Victims
The emotional battle a stroke victim has to face is enormous. Strokes are debilitating, sometimes bringing on severe depression. When a person suffers loss of mobility or speech, it can be devastating. Stroke victims need the support of their friends and family. Simply spending time with the person may help. If the individual cannot speak, your presence may serve as rudimentary communication. If immobile, your loved one may benefit from conversation. Charity.com tells us that stroke victims need to overcome depression in order to muster the long-term dedication they will need to face the challenges ahead. The effects of professional care and support groups can be bolstered by your participation at home.

Physical Therapy for Stroke Victims
A physically impaired stroke victim will need your help. Tasks such as eating, dressing or walking may be affected by a stroke. The level of debilitation will vary with each individual. Though stroke victims often receive professional physical therapy, The American Heart Association says that family involvement in physical therapy speeds recovery while reducing stress on family members.

Communication Assistance for Stroke Victims
Communication assistance is vital, especially when overcoming depression. Communication Assistance for Stroke Victims relates that speech impaired individuals can often communicate by nodding. If so, you should create a list of questions for them that you ask routinely, related to their comfort and needs. Sometimes a stroke victim is too cold or hot or may be in a position that causes discomfort. A simple checklist will go a long way.

Help for Families of Stroke Victims
Assisting a victim of a stroke can be hard work. It takes focus and dedication. Consult your medical team for help and advice with your loved ones. Medical staff will often have answers based upon years of experience with stroke victims. Don’t be afraid to use them as a resource.

University Hospital is certified by The Joint Commission as a primary stroke center.   For information or assistance regarding stroke recovery, please call our free Consult-A-Nurse® service at 1-888-256-7728 or visit us online.
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