Understanding Stroke: Your Guide to Prevention and Treatment
What is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, either by a blockage or a burst blood vessel. When brain cells don’t receive oxygen and nutrients, they begin to die within minutes, making immediate medical attention crucial.
Types of Strokes
- Ischemic Stroke (87% of cases)
- Caused by blood clots blocking blood vessels in the brain
- Often results from:
- Atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries)
- Blood clots from the heart
- Small vessel disease
- Hemorrhagic Stroke (13% of cases)
- Caused by bleeding in or around the brain
- Types include:
- Intracerebral hemorrhage (bleeding within the brain)
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage (bleeding between the brain and surrounding membranes)
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
- Often called a “mini-stroke”
- Temporary blockage causing brief stroke-like symptoms
- A warning sign that requires immediate medical attention
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase your stroke risk:
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Atrial fibrillation
- Family history
- Age (risk increases with age)
Prevention Strategies
- Manage Blood Pressure
- Regular monitoring
- Take prescribed medications as directed
- Reduce sodium intake
- Exercise regularly
- Lifestyle Changes
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise at least 150 minutes per week
- Follow a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Medical Management
- Regular check-ups
- Control diabetes
- Manage cholesterol levels
- Take prescribed medications consistently
Recognizing Stroke Symptoms (FAST)
Remember the FAST acronym:
- Face drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech difficulty
- Time to call emergency services
Additional symptoms include:
- Sudden severe headache
- Sudden confusion
- Difficulty seeing
- Problems with balance or coordination
Treatment Options
Immediate Treatment
- Clot-busting medications (for ischemic strokes)
- Surgery to repair blood vessels (for hemorrhagic strokes)
- Blood pressure management
- Oxygen therapy
Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Psychological support
- Medication management
How Sparkport Pharmacy Can Help
Our pharmacy offers:
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Medication management services
- Lifestyle modification advice
- Regular health checks
- Educational resources
- Support for smoking cessation
Take Action Today
Don’t wait for National Stroke Week to take control of your health. Visit Sparkport Pharmacy to discuss your stroke risk factors and develop a prevention plan. Our experienced pharmacists are here to help you manage your medications and provide guidance on lifestyle modifications.
Remember, stroke is largely preventable, and early action can save lives. Book your health check at Sparkport Pharmacy today.
