According to Dr. Chandana R. Gowda, a consultant neurologist at Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru (India), stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and death worldwide. The worrying thing is that stroke often goes silently, with most cases having no symptoms until the damage is severe. One of the most important risk factors is high blood pressure. Therefore, controlling blood pressure is the most effective way to reduce the risk of stroke.
Blood pressure and its role in preventing stroke
Slycing occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, leading to lack of oxygen and nutrients needed by brain cells, says Dr. Chandana R. Gowda. The cause can be blocked blood vessels (local anemia stroke) or rupture of blood vessels in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). Both of these conditions cause serious brain damage, which can lead to permanent disability or death if not treated promptly.
High blood pressure is one of the leading risk factors for stroke. When blood pressure remains high, blood vessels in the body, including cerebral blood vessels, are under constant pressure and are vulnerable. Over time, this makes blood vessels stiff, narrow or brittle, thereby increasing the possibility of blood clots or bleeding.
The ideal blood pressure for most adults is below 120/80 mmHg. Controlling blood pressure is not only important for normal people but is especially necessary for people with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, being overweight or other cardiovascular risk factors, because they are more susceptible to damage to blood vessels and have a higher risk of stroke.
How to reduce the risk of stroke by controlling blood pressure
Here are simple but effective habits to help maintain stable blood pressure:
Check your blood pressure regularly: Monitoring your blood pressure at home helps detect abnormal changes early and ensures effective treatment. Measure your blood pressure twice a day and record the results.
Limit salt in your diet: Salt increases blood pressure, so limit it to less than 5 grams per day (about 1 teaspoon). Avoid processed foods, fast foods, and packaged foods. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products helps control blood pressure effectively.
Increase exercise: Regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. A brisk walk of 30 minutes a day or about 150 minutes of exercise a week is enough. In addition, limit sitting for long periods and take regular breaks if working at a table.
Manage stress: Prolonged stress can increase blood pressure. Effective stress reduction measures include meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and limit the use of electronic devices before bed.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption both increase the risk of stroke. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol is an important way to protect blood vessels and maintain stable blood pressure.
The information in the article is for reference only, not a replacement for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should talk directly to your doctor for accurate advice that is suitable for your health condition.
