HealthyPlusno2Aug30pages (1) - Flipbook - Page 13
“ A high percentage of strokes may
be preventable simply by making
healthier lifestyle changes.”
– Dr. Jennifer Thuermer, DNP, ACNP
Diet and exercise, she adds, will help
to maintain a healthy weight. Following
a heart healthy diet includes making
a decision to avoid processed foods.
Substituting with fresh options can
reduce sugar and salt intake. Trying to
get in a 30-minute walk three-to-five
days per week can reduce your risk of
stroke. Quitting tobacco, alcohol, and
other recreational drugs can reduce
stroke risk. And it is important to
reduce stress levels that can drive high
blood pressure. Sleep patterns are
important in maintaining good health;
insufficient sleep can also increase your
risk for stroke. +
Act Fast
Timely help can make a big difference
Nothing is more important than time when someone is
suffering a stroke. The sooner someone gets medical
attention, the better the chances of recovery. The more time
that passes, even just 5 or 10 minutes, the more likely the
chance of brain injury, permanent disability, even death.
Potential temporary or permanent symptoms of a stroke
include:
• Inability to move on one side of the body
• Weakness on one side of the body
• Problems with thinking, awareness, attention, learning,
judgment, and memory
• Problems understanding or forming speech
• Problems with controlling or expressing emotions
• Numbness or strange sensations
• Pain in the hands and feet that worsens with movement and
temperature changes
• Depression
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