Although strokes are very common and scary, there are several ways to prevent the occurrence of a stroke. The Medical University of South Carolina states that strokes are the third leading cause of death among Americans. They are common among senior patients and learning the signs, symptoms, and common causes of stroke can help protect your family members or loved ones.The four most common types of strokes among senior patients are:
- Hemorrhagic stroke: takes place when a weakened blood vessel bursts causing blood to flow out and applies pressure on the brain where the tear is. There are two types of hemorrhagic strokes, arteriovenous malformations and aneurysms. In order to stop the blood flow, one has to undergo a surgical procedure to repair the vessel.
- Ischemic stroke: takes place when narrowing of the arteries blocks blood from traveling to the brain.
- Transient Ischemic stroke: this is commonly known as a “mini-stroke” and takes place when dead or damaged tissue travels in the bloodstream to the brain.
- Cryptogenic stroke: the cause of this stroke is usually unknown. The treatment of this stroke can be determined by evaluating patient history, physical examinations and follow up scans.
A stroke is defined as the death or damage of the brain caused by a bursting of a blood vessel or lack of blood flow to the brain tissue. A critical part of preventing stroke is acting fast. The acronym F.A.S.T. helps recognize early signs of a stroke. F.A.S.T. stands for Face, Arm, Speech, and Time. Identifying changes in facial features, weakened arm movement, unusual speech, and calling 911 for help immediately after recognizing a sign can be crucial in lessening the impact of a stroke for the victim.
There are risk factors that can be controlled to lessen the risk of experiencing a stroke. A healthy lifestyle plays a big role in prevention. By staying physically active, eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day, eating fewer sugars, and maintaining a healthy blood pressure helps reduce the risk of having a stroke. If you have any heart diseases, it is especially important to have a healthy lifestyle and recognize the early signs of a stroke.
There are treatments available for those who suffer from a stroke. Treatments include rehabilitation methods such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy. These treatments will help the patient continue to restore function and increase their quality of life. WellPath Partners is a great resource to locate a skilled nursing facility that provides rehabilitation services for stroke patients. WellPath Partners can help with placement among a long-term care facility that meets one’s eligibility and level of care for you and your loved ones.
WellPath Partners is your senior resource referral guide. Follow us on ALL social media platforms and join us weekly for more content and public health discussions.
By Malalai Shinwari
Senior Care Advising Intern at WellPath Partners
Health Science, Community Health Education Students at California State University Long Beach
