Stroke Prevention

Last updated 9 months ago

A stroke, also known as a brain attack, occurs when there is a sudden interruption in the brain’s blood supply which causes brain cells to die within minutes, often resulting in a range of long-term physical and cognitive complications. If you suspect that you or a loved one may be at risk for a stroke, then browse through these health tips below and consider a professional consultation from our specialists here at the Overland Park Regional Stroke Center in Johnson County.

Know Your Relative Risk
Age, sex, race, and lifestyle are just a few of the factors that determine an individual’s likelihood of suffering a stroke. About 87 percent of all strokes are ischemic, meaning that they result in a blockage of blood flow due to a clot, so poor heart health and chronic medical conditions such as atrial fibrillation and diabetes can also increase the risk of stroke. Additionally, research from the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) shows a 29 percent increased risk of stroke in patients who are undergoing hormone replacement therapy.
Live Healthily
Some of the most important preventable risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, smoking, and atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries). Maintain your physical health with a regular exercise routine and consider using tools like this nutrition and physical activity tracker from the USDA to monitor your overall health.
Be Aware of Early Warning Signs
Because a stroke can strike suddenly and inflict severe injury in a short amount of time, knowing the first signs of stroke is essential for minimizing the damage. The AANS reports that transient ischemic attacks precede about 30 percent of all stroke incidents and exhibit similar symptoms as a stroke, including the sudden loss of coordination, numbness on half of the body, severe headache, and difficulty seeing or speaking.

If you or loved one exhibit the symptoms listed above, then consider seeing a qualified professional here at the Overland Park Regional Medical Center Stroke Center, where we specialize in rapid diagnosis and treatment for stroke patients. To schedule a professional examination to determine your risk for stroke, call (888) 724-5920 today.