The American Stroke Association reports that strokes are one of the top five leading causes of death among adults in the US. A stroke can occur when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, which can cause brain damage and disability. Some signs of a stroke include trouble speaking or walking. Dr. Raj Gupta and Dr. Akshay Shah, the experienced doctors at San Jose Pacific Neurology Center P.C. in San Jose, CA can develop an individualized plan to help you reduce your risk of a stroke.
Stroke Risk Factors
Several different factors can increase a person’s risk for stroke. The good news is many of these issues can be controlled. Taking steps to manage these factors can substantially reduce your risk for a stroke. The skilled doctors at our office in San Jose, CA, can help you implement positive changes that will reduce your risk.
Some health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease increase a person’s risk for stroke. Seeking treatment for these conditions can reduce the risk. Other factors that increase a person’s risk for a stroke include smoking, lack of physical activity, and maintaining a diet high in cholesterol, saturated fat, and trans fat. Obesity also increases the risk of stroke. Quitting smoking, engaging in mild to moderate exercise regularly, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can all reduce stroke risk.
Symptoms Of A Stroke
The symptoms of a stroke can manifest throughout the entire body. The muscular function can be affected, as well as vision and speech. Additionally, individuals who have had a stroke often have difficulty understanding. Some common symptoms of a stroke include:
- Mental confusion
- Difficulty walking
- Muscle weakness
- Weak or numb limbs
- Paralysis on one side of the body
- Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
- Vision problems (e.g., double vision or blurred vision)
- Loss of coordination
- Lightheadedness
- Vertigo
- Fatigue
Treatment For A Stroke
Treatment for a stroke can vary from one patient to the next. Many patients benefit from taking medications. Depending on the individual, medication might be needed to thin the blood, lower blood pressure, or inhibit the blood from clotting. Treatment can also include physical therapy to build muscle strength and restore function, speech therapy, and general rehabilitation to relearn skills that were lost, such as how to walk.
Knowing the signs of a stroke is essential for recognizing when someone might have had one. Seeking treatment right away can help with recovery and limit long-term complications. To discuss stroke treatment options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Raj Gupta and Dr. Akshay Shah by calling San Jose Pacific Neurology Center P.C. in San Jose, CA, at (408) 347-1600.