Stroke Prevention, And When To See Your Neurologist

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A stroke is a condition wherein blood flow to an area of the brain is cut off, according to the National Stroke Association. The brain’s cells start dying as they are being denied oxygen. This can result in speech impediment, impaired memory, loss of movement, and even death.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that up to 80% of strokes could be prevented. Some factors for stroke are out of your control, such as family history. However, you can control others by avoiding smoking, alcohol consumption and through a good diet and physical activity. With the help of an experienced Dulles neurologist like Dr.Sarbjot Dulai you can take charge of your health.

Stroke prevention

  • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

People who smoke or drink excessively tend to be at a higher risk of stroke. All smoking is bad for the human body and should be avoided. Drinking alcohol in limited amounts is ok, but excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of stroke.

  • Diet

A healthy diet change to help prevent strokes does not have to be an inconvenience. Something as simple as daily choosing a healthy meal or snack, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, can help prevent a stroke.

Eating foods low in saturated fat, trans fat, and high in fiber can help prevent high cholesterol and keeping your blood pressure low by limiting your sodium intake (salt) are 2 easy ways to help lower your chances of contributing to a stroke.

  • Physical activity

Cholesterol and high blood pressure can be contributing factors to the cause of a stroke.

Physical activity can help you stay at a healthy weight and lower your cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Again, these small changes do not have to be an inconvenience. Something as simple as walking at a moderate or brisk pace or some other aerobic physical activity daily can help prevent a stroke.

Make an appointment with a Leesburg neurologist to be checked for stroke factors out of your control, such as family history, and factors that you can change today.

Warning signs of a stroke

In the event that you or someone you love is at risk for a stroke, it is recommended to learn the “FAST” acronym of stroke symptoms and to seek immediate medical attention.

  • Face—Does one side of the face droop? Ask the person to smile to check.
  • Arms—Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one drift downward or is one arm unable to rise?
  • Speech—Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
  • Time—If you observe any of these symptoms, call 911 or emergency medical help immediately. Time is of the essence.

See a Neurologist

Seeing a Leesburg neurologist like Dr.Dulai to talk about your risk of stroke and treatment options to avoid it is an important step in prevention of a stroke. Due to COVID-19 the office is now offering telemedicine appointments for online consultation and where necessary scheduling office visits as well. You can call Neurology Associates at (703) 726-6393 to schedule a consultation.