By following simple rules of prevention, a stroke can be prevented, experts are sure. Neurologists say that at least 80% of premature deaths from heart attacks and strokes can be prevented through proper nutrition, regular physical activity, abstinence from smoking, and maintaining a normal weight. We asked Alexey Shestakov, a neurologist at Yakut City Hospital No. 2, to talk about the rules of a healthy lifestyle, how to behave at the first signs of a “brain catastrophe,” and what to do to avoid repeated hemorrhage.
– Alexey Petrovich, what is the main difficulty in fighting stroke today?
– The most pressing problem is people’s lack of understanding of the dangers of stroke. People do not know the first symptoms of this dangerous disease and often waste precious time on home treatment, which complicates further rehabilitation and can later lead to disability.
I keep saying: at the first sign of discomfort, consult a doctor. If you seek help in time, you can recover completely! Remember: stroke can be predicted and prevented!!!
— What is the basis for stroke prevention?
– Know and control your blood pressure.
Do not start smoking or quit smoking as early as possible.
Add as little salt as possible to your food and avoid eating canned and processed foods that contain it in excess.
Follow the basic principles of a healthy diet – eat more vegetables and fruits, avoid added sugar and saturated animal fat.
Do not abuse alcohol. The risk of stroke is highest in the first hours after drinking alcohol.
Control blood cholesterol levels.
Exercise regularly. Even moderate physical activity – walking or cycling – reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, including stroke.
Observe the work and rest schedule.
Regularly undergo preventive examinations and medical examinations.
– Who is at risk?
– It’s not difficult to calculate. There are factors that the person himself adjusts: lifestyle, smoking, bad habits, nutrition. Of course, this can trigger a stroke. This also includes those risks that are subject to medical correction – blood pressure levels, diabetes mellitus, heart rhythm disturbances, cholesterol, atherosclerotic changes in blood vessels, and excess weight.
The next factor is gender and age. Unfortunately, men, especially after 40 years of age, are more often affected by stroke than women. Not just because of age. There are many factors that they do not want to change: poor lifestyle, smoking, alcohol, lack of blood pressure control.
– Nutrition is one of the main factors in your disease profile. If you exclude refined and fatty foods, will you not get sick?
– A healthy diet is an important, but not the only factor that prevents the development of stroke.
– How do you understand that trouble is near?
“Our population treats life-threatening conditions very lightly. The initial signs of a stroke should be known to everyone: blurred vision, numbness in any limb, weakness in an arm or leg, speech impairment. If you notice this, call an ambulance immediately! In the first three hours we can cure absolutely.
Unfortunately, people often try to self-medicate or simply ignore the symptoms – for hours, or even days! Of course, the symptoms get worse.
– Is it possible to provide first aid at home if, for example, your hand is numb or your facial expressions are impaired?
– Just call an ambulance. No self-medication options.
Photo: press service
Source: Press service of Yakutsk City Hospital No. 2
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2023-10-24 03:53:00
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