Stroke prevention

1. Leafy greens When you eat leafy greens, your body converts the nitrates into A 2. Walnuts Walnuts are a good source of In addition, walnuts are rich in 3. Citrus fruits Citrus fruits are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including A 4. Fatty and lean fish Fatty fish such as salmon, fresh tuna, and mackerel are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce the risk of stroke by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation. Lean fish, such as snapper, mahi-mahi, and cod, have lower levels of omega-3s, but they may have other nutrients that are helpful for preventing stroke. For instance, lean fish contain higher amounts of protein, iodine, and selenium, as well as fewer calories, which can be beneficial to human health. A A 5. Yogurt Yogurt is a good source of several nutrients important for A Stroke is linked to diet in several ways. A diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium can contribute to the development of risk factors for stroke, such as In contrast, consuming a diet high in foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and protective plant compounds can help reduce these risk factors and promote overall cardiovascular health, which can lower the chance of stroke. Several foods can increase the risk of stroke when consumed in excess. These • Processed meats: Consuming large amounts of processed meats, such as hot dogs and chicken nuggets, • Sugary drinks and foods: Consuming sugary drinks, such as soda and sports drinks, as well as foods h...

Tissue plasminogen activators are very powerful agents that are only used in specific circumstances. Importantly, there is a time window from the onset of the stroke in which tPA is most effective. This generally is within 4.5 hours of the onset of symptoms. Outside of this specific time window, tPA may be more harmful than beneficial. Medications After a Stroke Any of the previously mentioned medications can be used after a stroke to help reduce the risk of a future stroke. There also are a few medications that may be required after a stroke to help with conditions resulting from the stroke. These include drugs to improve mood. The brain changes after a stroke and depression is a common problem after suffering a stroke. Summary A stroke is a serious event that is strongly linked to cardiovascular disease. Treatment after a stroke is focused on reducing the severity of stroke as quickly as possible in combination with reducing your risk of future strokes. Many medications that focus on different areas of health that may help reduce your future risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease. One of the most common medications used after a stroke is aspirin. Aspirin has been shown to reduce the risk of a repeat stroke. If you have previously taken aspirin and experienced side effects such as severe bleeding, your doctor may recommend a different medication. However, it remains one of the most commonly prescribed medications after a stroke since it is widely available. • After exp...

American Stroke Association A division of the American Heart Association Together to End Stroke® F A C T #1: stroke kills brain cells Stroke happens when a clot or rupture interrupts blood flow to the brain. Without oxygen-rich blood, brain cells die. F A C T #2: types of stroke Ischemic caused by a clot, Hemorrhagic caused by a rupture and Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or “warning stroke” caused by a temporary blockage. F A C T #3: about one in four stroke survivors is at risk for another Fortunately, up to 80 percent of second clot-related strokes may be preventable. F A C T #4: prevention is key Had a stroke? Work with your doctor to identify the cause and create a plan to prevent another. This may include managing high blood pressure, making healthy lifestyle choices and taking medications as recommended by your doctor. After an ischemic stroke or TIA, most patients will be prescribed an antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy. F A C T #5: time lost is brain lost Now that you know prevention, here’s how you spot one. Learn the FAST warning signs: F Face Drooping A Arm Weakness S Speech Difficulty T Time to Call 911 © Copyright 2022 American Heart Association, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit. All rights reserved. American Stroke Association and Together to End Stroke are registered trademarks of the AHA. Unauthorized use prohibited. The HCA Healthcare Foundation is a national supporter of Together to End Stroke ™.

Share on Pinterest FG Trade/Getty Images A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is sometimes called a “ministroke.” It shares many of the same symptoms as a full-blown stroke, but the symptoms of a TIA are brief, lasting anywhere from a few minutes Although a TIA doesn’t usually lead to lasting disability or changes in your brain function, it can be a warning sign of a more serious stroke. You may be able to reduce your risk of a stroke in the future by treating underlying conditions and making some lifestyle changes. This article will take a closer look at the steps you can take to help prevent a more serious stroke down the road if you’ve had a TIA. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, an estimated The timeframe of a stroke after a TIA is unclear. According to a Although a TIA usually doesn’t cause complications, it’s important to get immediate medical attention, even if your symptoms only last for a few minutes. By understanding what caused a TIA, you can take steps to help prevent a future stroke. Medical professionals may use a High blood pressure (hypertension) is a A Lowering your blood pressure may also require: • Maintaining a moderate weight: Work with a healthcare team to determine a moderate weight for you and what you can do to reach and maintain that weight. • Getting good quality sleep: Prioritize your sleep and aim for at least 7–9 hours of sleep each night. If conditions such as • Managing stress in healthy ways: Try relaxat...