A stroke, sometimes called a "brain attack," is a neurologic injury that happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. When this happens, brain cells can die because they are not getting the oxygen and nutrients they need. A stroke can affect how a person moves, talks, remembers things or even how they feel. Some people recover fully, but others may have lasting problems.
There are two main kinds of strokes. One is called an ischemic stroke. This happens when something blocks the blood vessels that carry blood to the brain. The other is a hemorrhagic stroke. This kind happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts or leaks. Both types are serious and need quick medical help.
Many people don’t know that stroke can be prevented in many cases. Dr. Lalitha Battineni, a neurologist with Prisma Health Neurology at the Medical Park-Alcoa, says, “The best way to lower your stroke risk is to take care of your overall health. Small changes can lead to big results.” That means knowing what puts you at risk and taking steps to stay healthy.
Some health problems can make stroke more likely. High blood pressure is a common precursor to stroke. If your blood pressure is too high, it can hurt your blood vessels and increase your risk of stroke. Other conditions such as being overweight, having high cholesterol, heart disease or diabetes also raise your chances. Some people have a condition called atrial fibrillation, which is an irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots. Sleep apnea, a problem where you stop breathing for short periods of time during sleep, also can make strokes more likely. “It’s important to talk to your doctor about these risks. Many of them can be treated with medicine, healthy eating and exercise. You have the power to take control of your health,” Dr. Battineni said.
There also are things in your daily life that can raise your stroke risk. Smoking damages your blood vessels. Drinking too much alcohol or using illegal drugs also can raise your chances. Not moving around enough or eating too much salty, fatty or sugary food is not good for your heart or brain either. Some stroke risks, such as getting older or having a family history of stroke, can’t be changed. If you’ve had a stroke before or a mini stroke, called a transient ischemic attack (TIA), your risk is higher, too.
One of the best ways to stay healthy and lower your risk is by choosing the right foods. The Mediterranean Diet is a great example. It includes lots of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish and nuts. Olive oil is used instead of butter or other fats. People who follow this kind of diet often have lower blood pressure and better heart health.
Even if you have some risk factors you can’t change, there is still a lot you can do. By staying active, eating healthy foods, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol and working with your doctor, you can lower your risk and feel better.
Taking care of your brain starts with the choices you make now. To learn more about stroke prevention or to make an appointment with Dr. Battineni, call 865-984-3864.
