Listen to Women's Wellness Wednesday on the Murphy and Denise Morning Show on the 1st Wednesday of every month for valuable tips on Women's health [ check our ARCHIVE at the bottom for past month's tips ]
MAY audio tips
stroke #1 stroke #2
May is National Stroke Awareness Month – Know the Signs
You probably know the signs of a heart attack, but do you know the signs of a stroke? It’s just as important.
What is a stroke?
Stroke is a disease that affects the blood vessels that supply blood to the brain.
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that brings oxygen and nutrients to the brain either bursts (hemorrhagic stroke) or is clogged by a blood clot or some other mass (ischemic stroke). When a rupture or blockage occurs, parts of the brain don't get the blood and oxygen they need. Without oxygen, nerve cells in the affected area of the brain can't work properly, and die within minutes. And when nerve cells can't work, the part of the body they control can't work either. The devastating effects of a severe stroke are often permanent because dead brain cells aren't replaced. (Source: American Heart Association)
Every Minute Counts Because a stroke cuts off blood to the brain, so every minute can cause greater damage.
Stroke warning signs:
• Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg (especially on one side of the body)
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech.
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause
If you think someone is having a stroke, it’s important to get them to the hospital as quickly as possible. Call 9-1-1.
Several types of heart disease are risk factors for stroke. Likewise, stroke is a risk factor for coronary heart disease. Both coronary heart disease and stroke share many of the same risk factors such as high LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels, low HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity, and being overweight or obese.
Although heart disease and stroke account for the vast majority of deaths each year in America, there are things you can do to lessen your risk: • Eat a healthy diet, including more fruits and vegetables, whole grain products, eat foods low in saturated fats, and lower your sodium intake.
• Exercise every day for at least 30 minutes
• Know your blood pressure
• Stop smoking
Stroke can be serious, so check with your doctor for warning signs and ways to lower risk. For more information, visit the Medical Center of Aurora website
Women’s Wellness Wednesday is brought to you by The Medical Center of Aurora and Centennial Medical Plaza. Visit http://www.auroramed.com to find out more, and keep listening to KOSI 101 for each monthly Women’s Wellness Wednesday tip.
