The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, commemorated World Stroke Day on Oct. 29 with a nationwide virtual cycling and physical activity challenge called One CycleNation. This one-day digital event encourages participants to cycle, run, walk, or engage in another type of physical activity with the goal of raising awareness and funds to fight stroke, while also learning how to recognize the signs of stroke and ways to prevent it. Stroke is the world's no. 2 killer and a leading cause of disability. However, up to 80% of stokes may be prevented, according to the American Stroke Association.
No matter what speed a person cycles, walks, or runs, the American Stroke Association advises all people to be ready to save a life by remembering the most common stroke warning signs using the acronym FAST - F for face drooping, A for arm weakness, S for speech difficulty, and T for time to call 911. Getting emergency medical treatment for a stroke is safe, even during the pandemic. Calling 911 helps treatment start even before a person reaches the hospital, improving chances for a better recovery.
The association's World Stroke Day efforts also included a focus on controlling high blood pressure, because it is the leading preventable cause of stroke. Checking one's blood pressure regularly and getting it to a healthy range is one of the most important things a person can do to reduce his or her risk of stroke. The association has posted tips that people may follow to help keep their blood pressure in a healthy range (120/80) and lower stroke risk.
Individuals should work with their doctor and other health care professionals to manage their blood pressure through lifestyle changes and/or medication. It is important that individuals who have been prescribed blood pressure medications take them as prescribed. The labels on over-the-counter cold or flu medications should be checked, as some may elevate blood pressure. If a person has high blood pressure, NSAIDs may cause elevated blood pressure, and the person should consider acetaminophen instead. A heart-healthy diet filled with colorful fruits and vegetables may help lower blood pressure over time.
Getting seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night can improve brain function. Sleep-related breathing issues may increase stroke risk, so individuals should seek treatment right away if they suspect they have sleep apnea or a similar problem. Meditation by practicing mindfulness and being aware of one's breathing may significantly reduce blood pressure.
It is also important to be active. Adults should get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (or a combination). Two days per week of moderate- to high-intensity muscle strengthening activity is also recommended.
To learn more, readers may visit http://www.stroke.org/worldstrokeday.
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