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Prevention & Risk Factors
In today’s environment, your greatest asset for prevention
is information. As we age, we all develop some level of plaque accumulation
in our arteries. Getting screened to identify any abnormalities
will give you the best possible information about the health of
your vascular system and establish a baseline for you and your physician
to monitor.
Up to 80% of strokes can be prevented
if risk factors are identified and treated early.
Controllable Risk Factors:
- High cholesterol & high blood pressure
If you have high cholesterol or high blood pressure, follow your
doctor's guidelines for eating a diet low in fats and cholesterol
and, if necessary, take prescription medication or a daily aspirin
to lower your cholesterol and/or blood pressure.
- Smoking
If you smoke, quit. Those that smoke are at double the risk of
having a stroke.
- Diabetes
If you are diabetic, monitor your blood sugar frequently, follow
a healthy diet and take your insulin or oral medication as your
doctor has prescribed.
- Eat a heart healthy diet
This includes plenty of fish, fruit and vegetables, olive oil,
legumes, and high fiber grains and breads.
- Exercise regularly
Daily exercise that elevates your heart rate for at least 30 minutes
is recommended. Consult your physician for exercise levels that
are safe for you.
- Limit alcohol
One to two drinks per day can help elevate HDL (good cholesterol),
however more than that can increase the risk of stroke.
Uncontrollable
Risk Factors:
Other risk factors, unfortunately, are out of your control. Periodic
screenings can help to identify the development of excessive plaque
build-up (atherosclerosis),
allowing time for proper treatment.
- Age
The risk for stroke increases with age. Most strokes occur in
people over the age of 65, however this means plaque build-up
is occurring well before then.
- Gender
Stoke is more common in men at a younger age and women at an older
age. However, at all ages more women die of stroke.
- Family history
The risk for stroke is greater if a parent or sibling has had
a stroke or mini-stroke (TIA).
- Race
African Americans, Native Americans, and Alaskan Natives have
a greater risk than those of other races.
Like other diseases we screen for, Stroke is considered a silent
killer. Unfortunately half of all stroke victims had no symptoms
to indicate they were at risk, which is why early detection is so
important. Please join us for one of our vital, and potentially
life-saving screenings.
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