Preventing Transient Ischemic Stroke

Transient Ischemic stroke also referred as mini-stroke is similar to a stroke. TIA is a temporary blockage of blood to the brain. Unlike stroke, the blood clot usually dissolves in few minutes and does not have any permanent disabilities. Since it doesn’t cause any permanent damage it might seem like no serious issue. But, ignoring these signs will be a blunder whereas it may signal a full blown stroke ahead. Having a first stroke increases the possibility of having another one, so it is prior to take the warning seriously.

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death all over the world. People above 50 years old are at greater risk of this life threatening event. In spite of many awareness programs people tend to ignore these warning signs of stroke which may root to severe lifelong disability.

Identifying the Signs:

Recognizing the early signs of stroke is very important. It prevents the permanent damage to the brain, major disabilities or may be even death. Forty percent of the people who get TIA’s eventually have a stroke. Knowing the F.A.S.T acronym is the best way to remember the signs of the stroke.

• Face dropping- Face drop or numbness on one side of the face.
• Arm weakness- Weakness on one side of the arm. Unable to even raise the hand.
• Speech difficulty- Slurred speech or difficulty in and speaking understanding
• Time to call an ambulance- If someone shows any of these signs and symptoms it is important to seek an immediate help and should be rushed to the hospital.

Self-management to prevent stroke:

Knowing your risk factors and averting yourself from further consequences is the best thing you can do to prevent stroke. Listed below are few of the guidelines to be followed:

1. Don’t use illicit drugs or tobacco- Avoid smoking or consumption of drugs such as cocaine etc. which roots higher risk of triggering TIA.
2. Limit alcohol intake- Restraint drinking alcohol. The recommended limit is not more than one drink a day.
3. Manage your Obese- Being over-weight may trigger other health conditions such as High blood pressure, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Losing weight will help you lower your high blood pressure and improves your cholesterol levels.
4. Maintain a healthy diet- Cut down high cholesterol and fat in your diet which may reduce the buildup of plaques in your arteries. If you have other health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, avoid salt food and adding of salt to food. Also, manage your diabetes with proper diet, exercises and weight control.
5. Exercise regularly- Having a healthy lifestyle and healthy habits will lead to a happy life. If you want to lower your blood pressure without any drugs, exercise is the best way to attain it.