Stroke

Stroke is becoming more frequent in younger people largely due to the same risk factors experienced by older adults. There is also an increasing incidence in this population of cryptogenic strokes, which have no discernible cause.

911 is the national number in this country to call for emergencies. Yet, a large number of people who experience symptoms of stroke fail to call.

It all started one night in February, 2005. Tedy Bruschi woke up in the middle of the night with a severe headache and weakness on his left side. He attributed the symptoms to a particularly tough game two days prior. “It was not unusual to wake up in pain,” he explained.

Renée Lacy, 66, knows her way down the runway. She started modeling as a teenager. Now she helps others strut their stuff. Lacy developed Cameo Models Internationale, a full-service modeling agency and professional model coaching center. But a few years ago she thought her career may have come to an abrupt end. “Your whole world changes in a split second,” she said.

Physical activity is often referred to as medicine that costs nothing and has few, if any, side effects. It seems to be a panacea to avoid a lengthy list of illnesses. You can include stroke in that list.

An easy to fix meal that’s low in sodium and high in potassium

Although both sodium and potassium are essential for the body, people tend to consume more sodium than potassium, which can lead to increased blood pressure. High blood pressure in turn increases the risk of stroke.

Grow your own vegetables through Massachusetts’s Food Project’s Build-a-Garden program.

A diet rich in fruit and vegetables increases the intake of potassium, which can reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke.

Strengthening exercises at least two times a week can increase muscle strength and improve bone health.

An easy to fix meal that’s low in sodium and high in potassium.

Questions and answer on stroke from Dr. Thabele Leslie-Mazwi, a neurologist in the critical care center of Massachusetts General Hospital.