Stroke Center
Wellness
Healthy Habits
Even people with multiple risk factors can do a lot to prevent stroke. Though it won't guarantee to avoid a stroke, your habits can make a substantial impact on reducing your risk. Some lifestyle changes that your doctor may recommend include:
- Quitting smoking
- Maintaining an ideal weight
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Limiting alcohol
- Managing stress
- Reducing cholesterol
Early Diagnosis
Know the Signs of Stroke
Stroke is the 3rd leading cause of death, but it doesn't have to be deadly or even debilitating if treated early enough. Unfortunately, most people don't receive timely treatment because they don't know the signs.
Stroke Warning Signs:
- Weakness: Abrupt weakness in the face, arms, or legs, usually on one side
- Confusion: Abrupt disorientation and inability to speak normally
- Vision problems: Abrupt blurry vision in one or both eyes
- Loss of balance: Abrupt difficulty walking and/or standing up straight, lack of coordination, and/or dizziness
- Headache: Abrupt, sharp pain in the head without provocation
If you're with someone who has had a stroke, be sure to take note of the time when the first signs occurred. If treated within three hours, medications can reduce the risk of long-term disability.
