This weekend I heard about a family friend who recently suffered a stroke. I admit, I was surprised as he was always so healthy. It was initially noticed when he was began walking with a slight shuffle; rather than picking his left foot up to walk, he pulled it along. However, he didn’t notice that anything was happening to him. Throughout the day, he showed very few signs or symptoms of experiencing a stroke until one side of his body went completely numb. A stroke may not always be immediately apparent. Sometimes, the symptoms sneak up on you so gradually that you don’t notice them during the most critical moments. It’s important to know the symptoms, causes, and your risk level of a stroke.

The things that help your heart also help your brain. When protecting yourself from heart disease, you are also protecting your brain from a stroke which is the top cause of adult disability and the third leading cause of death. A stroke is caused when a blood vessel is blocked or ruptures. When this happens, blood that is rich is nutrients and oxygen is unable to get to the brain.

A stroke is caused by many different factors including smoking cigarettes, age, race, high cholesterol, excessive alcohol use, drug addiction, sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, and obesity. When a person experiences a stroke, it can lead to permanent neurological damage. Symptoms for a stroke include sudden or gradual paralysis on one side of the body, vision problems, memory loss, and speech/language problems.

Though strokes are triggered by a number of factors, it’s important to do what you can to prevent and reduce your risk level. Stay healthy by exercising and eating healthy. Avoid sugar sweetened beverages. Also, don’t smoke at all, don’t drink more than 1-2 alcoholic beverages a day, and don’t abuse drugs. Keep track of your numbers for blood pressure and cholesterol levels, both good and bad.

If you’ve experienced a stroke, your risk of having another one greatly increases. By taking care of yourself, you decrease your chances. Control the risk factors and reduce your risk: (compiled from the ASA)

  • Nutrition
  • Physical Activity
  • Follow Doctor’s Orders
  • Control Risky Conditions
  • Quality Care (rehab, stroke centers)

For more information on stroke risks and symptoms and life after a stroke, visit the American Stroke Association. Take control of your life by completing the American Heart & Stroke Association’s Life Check. Follow the simple 7 steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

EDTA is another great way to help protect your heart from heart disease. By removing toxins and heavy metals from your veins and arteries, chelation therapy helps cleanse your body, allowing your blood to flow freely. This brings nutrients and oxygen to all parts of your body, including your brain. For more information, contact Cardio Renew.