Strokes are not uncommon and are one of the most severe health complications, ranked the fifth most common cause of American deaths and disabilities. That is why you ought to do all you can to limit your risks for the condition. Donna Michelle Smith, NP, a board certified family nurse practitioner in Falls Church, VA, can help you understand how you can reduce your stroke risks. This can help you to be more than prepared to live a stroke-free life. Here are some of the ways to help you lower your chances for a stroke.
Stay on Top of It
Stroke can be caused by several health complications such as heart disease, diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol. If you are suffering from such difficulties, the best way to lower your chances for a stroke is to manage the underlying condition and stay on top. Therefore, be sure to talk about any history or current situation to your provider, who will help you manage the issue. For example, cholesterol and blood pressure can be managed through healthy lifestyle changes and medications, and several treatment plans can be put in place to manage diabetes and heart diseases.
Adopt a Healthy Diet
Healthy eating not only improves your overall wellbeing but also goes hand in hand with a stroke. It is therefore critical to make well-informed choices when eating. This will happen if you seek guidance from your doctor, who will guide and advise you accordingly on the right food to lower your chances of a stroke.
Generally, proteins low in saturated fats, cholesterol, and trans fats can help you manage your risks. You can get this from Omega 3 rich fish such as mackerel, salmon, and albacore tuna. Meats, lean cuts of lamb, pork, chicken, and beef can help. Fruits and vegetables should become a priority to your diet, and avoid too much sodium as it can increase your chances of high blood pressure.
Look Out for Obesity
Managing your weight is a great move to lower your chances of experiencing a stroke. This is because obesity is a severe concern for stroke and many other health complications. Your provider will help you understand your body mass index to establish if you are in a healthy weight range. If you are overweight, your doctor will direct you accordingly to help you achieve a healthy range.
Lead an Active Life
An inactive life increases your risk for serious health complications, including stroke. Therefore, becoming active can do wonders for your overall well-being. Besides, combining an active lifestyle and a healthy diet can do better for your health. It even makes managing weight much more straightforward. The best part is that you do not have to hit the gym to be active; even simple exercises such as walking and aerobic exercises can help you build up to intense training.
Quit Smoking
If you smoke, it can increase your chances of a stroke, among other health complications. It makes your blood vessels constrict, limiting circulation in all organs. Therefore, quitting smoking can increase your hopes for leading a stoke free-life. Though it might not be easy, talk to your doctor, who will help you get through the process.
If you are concerned about your stroke risks, note that it is possible to lower your chances of a stroke. Contact your providers at Integrated Neurology Services today and learn how. Your providers will help you make informed decisions to reduce your risks.
