Many in the medical community now use the phrase “brain attack” in place of “stroke.” That’s because strokes have a lot in common with heart attacks.
A heart attack happens when an artery that delivers blood to the heart becomes blocked. Deprived of oxygen and nutrient-rich blood, heart tissue begins to die. Immediate treatment is needed to prevent extensive damage to the heart.
Re-read that paragraph and exchange the word “heart” for “brain.” You are now describing a stroke, or brain attack. Like your heart, your brain is fueled by oxygen and nutrients delivered by the blood. The most common form of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain becomes clogged.
As a healthcare provider, Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) is sharing information on stroke prevention and how high blood pressure affects brain health. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can double or even quadruple your risk for brain attack.
A severe stroke can permanently destroy massive numbers of brain cells. When brain cells die, abilities controlled by that area of the brain – language, memory, muscle control – are affected. Some people recover completely from brain attack, but more than two-thirds of survivors have some type of disability.
How to Manage Your Risk for Brain Attack
While you can’t roll back the years or change your family history – both of which impact your risk for stroke – the single best way to reduce your risk for brain attack is to maintain a healthy blood pressure.
What is normal blood pressure? Less than 120 over 80 (120/80) is considered normal, according to the American Stroke Association.
If your blood pressure is above the normal range, talk to your healthcare provider immediately. Here are some strategies to get your numbers under control:
Reduce your salt intake to no more than a half teaspoon a day.
Avoid high-cholesterol foods like hamburgers, cheese and ice cream.
Get to a healthy weight if you’re overweight. Losing even 10 pounds can have a positive impact on your stroke risk.
Eat a diet that includes four to five cups of fruits and vegetables every day, one serving of fish two to three times a week and several daily servings of whole grains and low-fat dairy.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day, and more, if possible.
Give up tobacco, if you smoke.
Drink alcohol only in moderation. Studies show that more than two alcoholic drinks per day sharply increases your risk for brain attack.
Want to monitor your blood pressure between appointments with your healthcare provider? You may want to invest in a home blood pressure monitor kit. Some pharmacies also have complimentary blood pressure monitors to use. QCBN
Visit YRMC HealthConnect (YRMCHealthconnect.org) for more information on stroke prevention and controlling your blood pressure.