At Home Care Services Experts Reveal Signs That Your Loved One Is At Risk Of A Stroke

Stroke, the third leading cause of death in the United States, can come on suddenly and can have deadly results. When the flow of oxygen-rich blood is blocked from entering certain parts of the brain, a stroke can occur, resulting in anything from a debilitating disability in seniors to death. But for caregivers and seniors, the most important thing you can do to prevent a deadly stroke is to keep a close eye on risk factors associated with stroke patients. Here are some of the biggest signs that a senior is at risk of having a stroke, according to at home care services experts.

If it runs in the family…

Your risk of having a stroke increases greatly if your mother, father, brother or sister has suffered from one. While you can’t change your family genes, you can focus on areas that are changeable if your family has a history of strokes.

Smoking

If there’s one thing we know by now, it’s that smoking kills. And according to at home care services experts, this is especially the case when it comes to strokes. Smoking damages blood cells and boosts your blood pressure, which are both linked to an increased risk of deadly strokes.

High blood pressure

While we’re on the subject of high blood pressure, it’s important to note how high blood pressure, in general, can be linked to an increased risk of having a stroke. See a doctor if you’re worried about your high blood pressure. At home care services experts recommend a change in diet, medication, and exercise if you are one of the many American seniors who suffers from high blood pressure.

Obesity

If you are obese, at home care service professionals warn that there are a few related factors that could contribute to your increased chances of having a stroke. Between high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, there are several ways that being obese can increase your chances of having a stroke.

Lack of exercise

If you are a senior without a solid exercise plan designed for your lifestyle, studies have shown that you are at a higher risk of having a stroke than other, healthier seniors. If you want to reduce your chances of having a stroke, it’s important to speak with a doctor or nutritionist to ensure that you’re getting the right level of exercise and eating the right foods.