Avoiding Strokes and Illness
The tri-demic of COVID-19, Influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is very much still with us, accounting for
more hospitalizations and pneumonia. Viral infections lower host immune responses allowing bacteria to establish
infection, compounding lung damage. Vaccination, masking, hand sanitizing and safe distancing remain the best ways to avoid getting sick.
In other news, stroke numbers are rising. Worldwide, over 6.5 million die from strokes each year. Those who survive are
often left with life-limiting disability, including physical impairment, memory loss, depression and need for personal
care. Strokes occur when blood flow to the brain is interrupted which leads to oxygen and nutrient loss to that part of
the brain; that piece of brain dies. More commonly, strokes occur from vascular fatty plaque blockages (hardening of
the arteries) or clots from elsewhere (abnormal heart beats form clots). However strokes can also occur from a ruptured
blood vessel, due to thinning and weakening of the walls; this is called a hemorrhagic stroke. This leakage of blood
causes inflammation and adds to damage. Age is the only risk factor that cannot be changed, but common causes
like high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, especially associated with obesity, high cholesterol and inactivity can
be prevented. In the US there are about 800,000 strokes per year, with a majority being women.
Lifestyle improvements decrease your risk.
If you smoke, stop, and there are several effective methods to help you do this: your doctor, the NY State QUIT line
(866-697-8487) or the American Lung Association can help.
Measure your blood pressure frequently and discuss with your doctor a good way to control it. Ask your doctor to
measure your Ankle-Brachial Index which reflects the degree of hardening of the vessels in your legs. Treatment works!
A better diet focusing on portion control, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains as sources of carbohydrates and
healthy proteins (beans, soy, fish, chicken) with polyunsaturated fats (olive, canola, sunflower and other oils) can help
with both weight control and lowering cholesterol. The DASH or Mediterranean diet is a start, and if needed, a
cholesterol-lowering drug can help.
Regular activity as simple as walking every day may be enough to keep the blood flowing. Doing this with a friend,
dog, or other companion makes it more fun! And make sure you’re getting enough sleep.
The Warning signs of Stroke
Remember FAST:
F = Face drooping or numbness
A = Arm weakness
S = Speech difficulty
T = TIME to call 911
The ‘gold’ period is approximately 3-hours following the stroke, when rapid treatment can restore function before
permanent damage ensues. Rapid treatment can restore blood flow and reduce long term disability. Act fast!
Happy New Year,
Norma MT Braun, MD
