The American Heart Association recognizes October 29th as World Stroke Day and FitClub wants you to take a minute and know your stroke risks, the warning signs, and how you can prevent a stroke.
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Stroke, Know the Signs & Your Risks - FitClub West, Tuesday Nov. 1 @ 1:00pm
The American Heart Association defines “stroke” as the event that occurs “when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts (or ruptures).” Strokes are the fifth leading cause of death in the United States, as well as a leading cause of disability. According to the American Heart Association, every forty seconds, someone in the United States suffers a stroke, and every four minutes, someone in the United States is killed by a stroke. The lasting disabilities caused by stroke can be devastating to both the person that suffers the stroke and their family members.
Now, the good news: most strokes are preventable.
Risk Factors Before you can think about preventing a stroke, you have to understand your risk factors. There are several risk factors beyond your control. If you have a family history that includes strokes, you likely already know that heredity plays a role. Race and gender also can determine whether you are at risk for a stroke, with African Americans having a higher incidence of stroke, and women having a higher predisposition than men. Prior strokes, heart attack or cardiovascular disease also increases your risk of stroke.
There are also several risk factors within your control, including high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, poor diet, lack of physical activity and obesity.
To better understand your risk factors, talk to your medical professionals, and then manage the factors within your control by following the tips below.
Prevention FitClub wants you to take charge of the factors within your control.
Stop smoking. If you are a smoker, today is the day to quit! Smoking is a leading risk factor for strokes. Smoking also causes high blood pressure and contributes to physical inactivity. There are resources available if you’re a smoker trying to quit. Take advantage of the healthy, social, smoke-free support you receive at FitClub to jump start your success.
Get active. If you’re already a member of FitClub, you’re on the right track. Talk to a personal trainer, take a class, or find a workout regimen that puts you on the track to regular exercise. If you’re new to exercise, consult your medical professionals and the FitClub staff to determine the best workout regimen for you.
Lose weight. Great news! If you’re getting physically active, weight loss is an excellent side effect. Losing weight also requires you to eat a healthy diet, get plenty of quality sleep, and drink enough water to stay hydrated.
Managing your risk factors for stroke isn’t easy, but it is essential. FitClub can help. Take advantage of the professional resources available to FitClub members. Engage with the FitClub community and find others seeking a healthier lifestyle.
