Dr. Parag Shah, a Florida-based doctor specializing in stroke rehabilitation, is offering advice on how women can reduce their risk of having a stroke. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel bursts and leaks blood into the brain, and it is the fifth-leading cause of death for American women. Statistics show that one in five American women between the ages of 55 and 75 will suffer a stroke. Dr. Shah recommends embracing the Mediterranean diet, avoiding air pollution, practicing tai chi or yoga, recognizing less-common stroke signs, and understanding the biological factors that may make women more susceptible to strokes.
The Mediterranean diet, which focuses on plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats while limiting red meat and sugar, has been shown to reduce the risk of stroke, especially for women. A UK study from 2018 found that women who followed the Mediterranean diet had a 22% lower risk of stroke compared to those who rarely followed the diet. Men who followed the diet only saw a 6% reduced risk. Additionally, Dr. Shah recommends consuming potassium-rich foods to help maintain healthy blood pressure, as potassium intake is associated with a reduced risk of stroke and overall heart health.
Exposure to air pollution has also been linked to an increased risk of stroke, even after just five days of exposure. Dr. Shah advises checking the air quality in your area and taking precautions on high-pollution days, such as limiting time outdoors, using air purifiers, and wearing masks to filter out particles. Practicing activities like tai chi, yoga, and mindfulness techniques can lower the risk of strokes, with Dr. Shah suggesting dedicating 30 to 60 minutes a day, three to five times a week to these activities.
Recognizing less-common stroke signs is crucial for early intervention and treatment. Symptoms such as sudden confusion, difficulty understanding, slurred speech, double vision, or numbness or weakness on one side of the body are often overlooked signs of strokes. If you suspect someone is having a stroke, it is important to call 911 immediately, stay calm, note when the symptoms began, check their breathing and pulse, and avoid offering food or drink to prevent choking. Dr. Shah emphasizes the importance of knowing these signs to ensure timely care.
Certain biological factors, such as the use of oral contraceptives, pregnancy, giving birth, undergoing hormone therapy, or experiencing hormonal changes like menopause, can increase the susceptibility of women to strokes. Regular health check-ups, awareness of stroke symptoms, and prevention methods are essential for maintaining good health and reducing the risk of strokes. Dr. Shah highlights the importance of staying informed about these factors and seeking medical help when necessary to prevent or manage any underlying conditions that may increase the risk of strokes.
