VISITING ANGELS WAYZATA, MN 952-935-0789
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Understanding Strokes

Understanding Strokes

Strokes are the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, they are also the leading cause of disability, affecting nearly 795,000 people. May is American Stroke Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to educate yourself about strokes and lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk. 

What is a Stroke?

Stroke is a disease that affects arteries leading to the brain. The brain needs oxygen and nutrients to function. It gets the oxygen and nutrients it needs through blood vessels. If those blood vessels get blocked by a blood clot or rupture, the brain doesn’t get enough blood and oxygen, and brain cells start to die. There are two types of strokes:

  • Ischemic stroke- Most strokes are ischemic when blood vessels supplying the brain blood get blocked. 
  • Hemorrhagic stroke- Less likely are hemorrhagic strokes when weakened blood vessels burst.

There is also a transient ischemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke. A TIA is considered a warning sign of a future stroke and is a medical emergency. The signs of a TIA are similar to a stroke, and it’s hard to tell the difference when the attack starts, but TIA symptoms will go away after a few minutes. Unfortunately, many people who experience a TIA don’t seek treatment and have a major stroke within the year. 

Stroke Symptoms 

A stroke is a medical emergency. If someone is exhibiting signs of a stroke, call 911 immediately. You can use the acronym FAST to help identify a potential stroke. 

  • F= Face Dropping- Is one side of the person’s face look uneven, or does the individual say their face is numb.
  • A= Arm Weakness- Ask the individual to raise both arms and see if one falls downward. 
  • S= Speech Difficulty- Is the person slurring their speech?
  • T= Time to call 911- Get medical professionals on-site immediately. 

In addition to FAST, you may notice additional signs and symptoms of a stroke, such as numbness on one side of the body, confusion, trouble seeking, difficulty walking, or a severe headache. 

Reducing Stroke Risk 

Strokes can happen to anyone, so it’s essential to know your risk factors and lifestyle changes you can make to stay healthy. 

While strokes can strike at any age, they’re more common in people after 55. They’re also more common in people who have a family history of strokes and women. Various health conditions can also increase the risk of strokes, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and sickle cell disease. 

There are lifestyle choices that could also increase your risk of stroke. People who smoke, have diets high in saturated and trans fat, and have limited physical activity are at a higher risk for stroke. Making small changes to these areas of your life can significantly decrease your chances of a stroke and improve your overall health. 

Life After a Stroke

A stroke can impact your cognitive and speech capabilities, and it may take time to recover. Some people experience memory problems or communication challenges. Others might face difficulties in attention span and problem-solving. 

While you’re recovering and receiving treatment, you may require help at home to keep you living safely and comfortably. That’s where Visiting Angels can help. Our professional caregivers work with seniors to assist with household tasks such as light housekeeping, meal preparations, personal grooming, showering, dressing, and more. 

Our Wayzata office serves those in Minneapolis and the surrounding west and southwest communities. If you’d like to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in life after a stroke, call us at 952.935.0789.

Serving Minneapolis and the West and Southwest Communities

Visiting Angels WAYZATA, MN
901 Twelve Oaks Center Dr #908C
Wayzata, MN 55391
Phone: 952-935-0789
Fax: 952-935-0778

Serving Minneapolis and the West and Southwest Communities

Visiting Angels WAYZATA, MN
901 Twelve Oaks Center Dr #908C
Wayzata, MN 55391
Phone: 952-935-0789
Fax: 952-935-0778