Reducing the risk of stroke: Lifestyle changes that make a difference

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in India and worldwide, with approximately 15 million people affected annually. As a neurologist, I highlight the importance of understanding and reducing stroke risk through essential lifestyle modification.

Factors like age, sex and genetics, are beyond our control. Many modifiable risk factors can be addressed:

Healthy diet :
Adopting a balanced diet is essential for stroke prevention . WHO recommends diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limiting saturated fats, trans-fats, and added sugars is essential.
Salt Reduction: Limit salt intake to under 5 gm per day to help manage blood pressure. Avoid excess pickle, added raw salt, etc.

Appropriate physical activity:

It is recommended to do moderate-intensity aerobic exercise at least 150 minutes of every week (WHO recommendation). It can be brisk walking, cycling, or swimming. It helps in maintaining a healthy weight, lower or maintain blood pressure, and improve overall body health.

Maintain healthy weight:
Obesity is a significant risk factor for stroke. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise reduces risk of stroke. A BMI of ≤25 kg/m2 is usually considered healthy.

Diabetes control:
Uncontrolled diabetes increases stroke risk by many folds. Control of blood sugar levels is essential. It can be achieved by a healthy diet, regular physical exercises, and medication. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and routine follow up with your diabetes doctor is important.

Blood pressure monitoring :
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a major risk factor for brain stroke. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is must for early detection, and as well as for monitoring if already on treatment. Monitoring can also be done by automated machines at home and maintaining the records.

Sleep apnea:
Sleep apnea (OSA), which is characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep. Generally, people are not much aware about its importance or association with medical diseases like stroke and heart attack. Its symptoms include excessive day time sleepiness, loud snoring and gasping for air during sleep. If you have any of these symptoms, visit your family physician or pulmonologist for further evaluation. For diagnosing it, sleep study can be done at home.

Importance of family history:
If there is significant family history of ischemic events (heart attack, stroke, thrombosis, etc.) at a young age, consult doctor for risk assessment and further tests if needed. Certain genetic factors also play crucial role. Early diagnosis can significantly reduce future risk.

Recognizing Stroke Symptoms
Early recognition of stroke symptoms is critical for effective treatment. Early the treatment, better the outcome.

The acronym FAST helps to remember the important signs:
• Face Drooping.
• Arm Weakness.
• Speech Difficulty.
• Time to Call Emergency Services.


The Importance of the Window Period

Initial few hours from symptoms are considered as window period for stroke (usually 4 hours). Certain medications, like clot-bursting injection can only be given if patient’s presentation to hospital is within window period. Hence, recognizing symptoms early and seeking immediate medical attention can improve recovery chances.

To conclude, stroke is preventable. Adopting healthier lifestyle choices can dramatically reduce risk. Focus on a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining appropriate weight, controlling diabetes, monitoring blood pressure, and recognizing stroke symptoms, are key points to remember for better neurological and overall health.
As a doctor, it is our responsibility to enlighten people for certain lifestyle changes and key sings to remember for recognising early symptoms of stroke for enhancing quality of life and longevity.

(Dr. Tushar Raut, Consultant, Neurology, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai)