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Nest & Care, a reputable provider of home care services in Silver Spring, Maryland, lists down some important facts about silent stroke that you need to know.

What is a silent stroke?

A silent stroke is a kind of stroke that doesn’t have any outward symptoms commonly associated with symptomatic strokes. Typically, patients are unaware that they have suffered a stroke. However, despite not causing identifiable symptoms, a silent stroke can still cause damage to the brain. Reports indicate that a silent stroke is more common than symptomatic stroke. Further statistics show that approximately one-third of people aged 70 years old have had at least one silent stroke.

Studies also indicate that a silent stroke can increase the probability of more chances of stroke in the future. Furthermore, a silent stroke can cause cumulative damage over time and has been shown as one of the leading causes of vascular dementia in individuals over the age of 70 years old.

Who is at risk? What are the risk factors involved?

Anyone can have a stroke; however, there are some things that can increase your risk. Since silent strokes have no outward symptoms and can only be detected via imaging tests, it can be difficult for patients to identify when one has occurred. One of the best ways to catch silent stroke is to be aware of the risk factors involved in all types of strokes. Here are some of the major risk factors of stroke that you should take note of:

  • Obesity
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Sedentary Lifestyle
  • Heavy Drinking
  • High Cholesterol

Is there any way to mitigate risks?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), up to 80% of strokes can be prevented through healthy lifestyle changes. As an experienced provider of home health care in Takoma Park, Maryland, we offer the following tips that may help mitigate your risks of silent strokes:

  • Quit smoking.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Regularly check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and keep them under control.
  • Exercise for at least 30 minutes every day.
  • Eat a healthy, well-balanced meal. Avoid high fat, high salt diets.

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.