) [31] is associated with higher “bad” cholesterol and triglyceride levels and lower “good” cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and diabetes, all contributing to a higher risk of stroke. [30]Drinking too much can increase blood pressure and triglycerides, which can clog arteries. [17] According to the CDC, to prevent raising your risk of stroke, women should have no more than one drink a day, and men should have no more than two drinks a day.
“The sooner you are evaluated and diagnosed with a stroke, the better chance you have to prevent the progression of symptoms or stop symptoms from happening,” Dr. Aradine says.Numbness or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg, often on only one side of the bodyVision problems in one or both eyes, such as double, blurred, or blackened visionHow is a stroke diagnosed?
The first step to diagnose a stroke is a doctor assessing your symptoms. Come prepared to share what symptoms you’re experiencing and when they began. [19] If you cannot speak or are too confused to remember, the doctor may ask a loved one or companion when the symptoms began, Dr. Aradine says. Then the ER doctor may do a number of tests to determine what type of stroke you had and identify the best treatments. [20]The doctor will check your blood pressure and heartbeat.
There’s minimal risk with any of these tests, Dr. Aradine says. A CT exposes you to some radiation , [32] and people who are claustrophobic may be uncomfortable with an MRI due to the tight space of the machine.Treatment for a stroke begins immediately, when possible, and can continue for a few months or even years until the person is fully rehabilitated. [22] Treatment options depend on the type of stroke and may include medications, surgery, and rehab.
Stroke can change you physically, mentally, and emotionally. Some of the below complications may be temporary, while others may be permanent changes. [18] With rehab, though, you can recover some function and learn to manage other complications.Twenty-five percent of survivors have another stroke within five years.