Many long years ago, when I was a little girl, my grandfather died of a stroke. Before his death, I remember him babbling in his native German after the stroke destroyed his normal ability to speak.
Since then I’ve treated many patients who suffered disabling weakness, numbness or loss of vision or speech from having a stroke. I’ve seen the disease take an enormous toll on people’s lives.
The devastating symptoms of a stroke happen when an artery in the brain becomes blocked; this usually occurs from a blood clot or burst blood vessel. Strokes strike 700,000 men and women in this country every year, killing about 160,000.
Fortunately, improved knowledge makes it more feasible than ever before to modify conditions and lifestyle habits that raise your stroke risk.
High blood pressure: Hypertension is the most common risk factor for stroke; it’s also the most preventable. Treatment can reduce stroke risk by an average of 42 percent, according to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
The American Heart Association advises all adults to have their blood pressure checked at least every two years. If your blood pressure is higher than 140 over 90, work with your provider to lower it using lifestyle changes and medications.
Diabetes and high cholesterol: Research indicates that blood sugar and cholesterol control, primarily through diet and medications, helps prevent stroke. People with diabetes should also aim for a blood pressure less than 130 over 80. Proper care lowers stroke risk an average of 44 percent for diabetes, and 25 percent for abnormal cholesterol.
Cardiovascular disease: Patients who have an irregular heart rhythm called atrial fibrillation can lower stroke risk by taking a blood thinner called warfarin; the drug can lower stroke risk up to 67 percent.
Patients who have suffered a stroke or warning stroke may benefit from taking an agent that makes blood platelets less sticky, such as aspirin or other anti-platelet drugs.
Smoking and alcohol: Cigarette smoking doubles the risk for stroke. But the risk returns to the same level as someone who has never smoked about five years after quitting smoking.
Consuming excess alcohol —more than two daily drinks for men or one for women — is also a major risk factor for stroke.
Poor diet: People who consume few fruits and vegetables have a higher stroke risk than those who eat five or more daily servings. For the greatest impact on reducing stroke odds, eat more leafy greens of all types, vegetables in the cabbage family such as broccoli and cauliflower, and citrus. Also consume a variety of fresh produce for an ample supply of stroke-reducing nutrients and fiber.
Lack of exercise: In a study of 72,000 women followed for eight years, those who exercised regularly had fewer strokes. Compared to sedentary women, those who got the most exercise had a 34 percent reduction in total strokes and a 48 percent reduction in stroke caused by hardening of the arteries (the most common type).
Brisk or fast walking was associated with a lower risk of stroke than walking at a slow pace.
For stroke prevention, the National Stroke Association recommends moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week. If you’re unaccustomed to exercise, first get your provider’s OK.
Today we have a greater understanding of the underlying causes of stroke that are amenable to change. Consult your doctor if you think you’re at increased risk for stroke.
For more information: American Stroke Association, www.strokeassociation.org.
Contact Dr. Elizabeth Smoots, a board-certified family physician and fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, at doctor@practicalprevention.com. Her columns are not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Before adhering to any recommendations in this column consult your health care provider.
&Copy; 2007 Elizabeth S. Smoots
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