What can you do to prevent stroke?
Age makes us more susceptible to having a stroke, as does having a mother, father, or other close relative who has had a stroke.
High blood pressure is a huge factor, doubling or even quadrupling your stroke risk if it is not controlled. High blood pressure is the biggest contributor to the risk of stroke in both men and women. Monitoring blood pressure and, if it is elevated, treating it, is probably the biggest difference people can make to their vascular health.
Obesity, as well as the complications linked to it (including high blood pressure and diabetes), raises your odds of having a stroke. If you're overweight, losing as little as 10 pounds can have a real impact on your stroke risk.
Smoking accelerates clot formation in a couple of different ways. It thickens your blood, and it increases the amount of plaque buildup in the arteries. Along with a healthy diet and regular exercise, smoking cessation is one of the most powerful lifestyle changes that will help you reduce your stroke risk significantly. (Source: HealthHarvard.edu)
For more information about the signs and prevention of a stroke, visit www.stroke.org.
Vyto's Pharmacy is your local source for vitamins, supplements and prescription medicines that aid in keeping your heart and brain healthy.
Hepatitis Explained
The liver is the largest organ in the body, so any injury or damage to it can be dangerous. And hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. more
Staying Active During the Holidays
'Tis the season of heaping plates, sweet treats, endless holiday parties, lazy days off work and all-too-often, expanding waistlines. more
How to Manage Arthritis Pain
Are you one of the millions in the United States with arthritis? more
How to Add Fiber to Your Daily Diet
Lower cholesterol, healthy bowels, better blood sugar and healthy weight — that's the potential power of dietary fiber. Here's how to get more of it in your diet. more
The Hidden Salt in Your Diet
The salt shaker isn't the only way you're getting a lot of sodium in your diet. more
Let's Talk Turkey Safety
Extra care in the kitchen can easily minimize the risk of foodborne illness and ensure a happy and healthy family Thanksgiving this year. more
The Power of Reflection and 3 Ways to Practice It
The coming of a new year is a great time to look forward. But it's also a great time to look inward. more
Complementary Health: What You Need to Know
"Complementary health approach" — you've probably heard this phrase, but you might not know exactly what it is. Read on to find out. more
Medicines and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Pregnancy is a very special time in a woman's life. However, because some medications are safe during pregnancy and others are not, it can also be a confusing time. more