Reducing the Risk of Stroke at Any Age: Simple Steps for Everyone

Every five minutes, someone experiences a stroke, making it a significant contributor to both death and disability among survivors. Dr. Angela Rai, a general practitioner, sheds light on this critical issue.

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is either blocked or reduced," explains Dr. Rai.

There are primarily two types of strokes. First, there's the ischaemic stroke, where blood flow to the brain is obstructed, usually due to a clot. This results in insufficient oxygen reaching the brain, leading to the death of cells. The second type is a haemorrhagic stroke, which happens when there is bleeding in the brain. Dr. Rai points out that most strokes are ischaemic and are linked to specific risk factors.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial in addressing the alarming frequency of strokes and their severe consequences.

Preventing strokes can be a bit tricky because some factors are beyond our control. Things like age, genetics, family history, and ethnicity play a role – strokes are more common in folks in their 60s and 70s, but anyone can be affected. People in south Asian, African, or Caribbean communities might have a higher risk. Some health conditions are also linked to strokes.

Remember those healthy habits you were told to adopt in your 20s and 30s? Well, they still matter when you hit your midlife. But, as you reach your 40s and 50s, it's crucial to keep an eye on your blood pressure. Dr. Rai suggests getting it checked regularly, and you can do it for free at pharmacies. High blood pressure often has no symptoms and can cause damage without you even knowing it.

Taking blood tests for cholesterol levels and checking for diabetes with glucose tests can help manage risks. Dr. Rai mentions, "Several other blood markers are useful for assessing cardiovascular risk." Also, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial because obesity is a risk factor for all cardiovascular diseases, including strokes. Listen to your doctor's advice, make lifestyle changes, and take prescribed medication to control blood pressure or cholesterol if needed. These steps can go a long way in reducing your risk of strokes.

Taking care of your stress levels becomes even more crucial in this phase of life, particularly if you're dealing with long work hours, managing caregiving duties, and facing financial pressures. Dr. Rai emphasizes, "Remaining active and minimizing stress are vital throughout life, but they become even more crucial during these decades, especially when life gets hectic." Therefore, incorporating self-care, downtime, and recharging into your priority list is essential.

Another significant stroke risk factor is atrial fibrillation (AF), a condition characterized by a fast, irregular heartbeat. While it's typically diagnosed after the age of 60, it can affect individuals of any age. Dr. Rai explains, "AF arises due to an aging cardiovascular system and factors linked to poor cardiovascular health. Inefficient pumping of the heart chambers increases the risk of blood clots formation. If these clots travel through the circulation, the risk of a stroke arises."

The presence of AF escalates the stroke risk by approximately five times. It's crucial to be vigilant for symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, or chest pain, and seek medical attention promptly. However, many people may not experience noticeable symptoms, and detection might only occur during routine examinations. Treatment involves medications to diminish clotting risk and regulate heart rate. Therefore, staying attuned to your body and addressing potential issues promptly is vital for maintaining a healthy life during these critical years.