Risk factors, like age and family, history may be beyond your control. However, there are other stroke factors that you can control to lessen your chances of a stroke. Controllable risk factors include obesity, high cholesterol, physical inactivity, and more.
If left unchecked, these risk factors can contribute to your odds of suffering from a stroke. At Nest & Care, a premier provider of in home care in Montgomery County, MD, offers the following suggestions that may be able to help you:
- Lose Weight.
Obesity and the complications linked to it, (i.e. diabetes and high blood pressure) can increase your risk of a stroke. The ideal body mass index (BMI) is 18.5 – 24.9, but if this is not idealistic for you, make sure to talk to your doctor. They may be able to help you create a personal weight loss strategy. - Exercise.
Studies show that physical activity and exercise can greatly decrease your chances of a stroke. Moreover, it can also help you reduce your weight and lower your blood pressure (both of which are factors that can increase your chance of a stroke). Some simple exercises include taking a daily walk, yoga, meditation, or even taking the stairs instead of an elevator. - Moderate your alcohol consumption.
Did you know? Several studies show that drinking too much alcohol can significantly increase your chances of a stroke. So, if you drink, make sure to do it in moderation or if you can, you should quit entirely. - Quit smoking.
Cigarette smoking can greatly increase your risk of a stroke. It can accelerate clot formation and thickens the amount of plaque buildup in arteries. Smoking can lead to several health issues, such as high blood pressure, lung cancer, and other circulation problems. If you find it difficult to quit, consult your doctor or consider quit-smoking aids (i.e. nicotine patches, counseling).
Remember: Think F-A-S-T
To identify if you or a loved one is having a stroke, remember to think F-A-S-T:
- FACE: Smile. Does one side of your face droop when you do it?
- ARMS: Lift both arms. Does one arm drift back down?
- SPEECH: Talk. Does your speech sound odd? Are you slurring your words?
- TIME: If you notice any of these signs in yourself or someone else, call 911 or your local emergency room immediately.
These are just some reminders from your trusted home health care in Rockville, Maryland.
Nest & Care is a dedicated in-home care in Montgomery County, MD. We provide service in Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring and its neighboring communities. If you’re looking for a dedicated and professional caregiver who can help a loved one for their daily needs, Nest & Care can help. We carefully match each client with the best caregiver and formulate an individualized plan that best suits the family’s needs and goals. Excellent service to our clients and families is of paramount importance to us. Call us today for your free in-home assessment by a Nest & Care Registered Nurse.