In the United States, nearly 800,000 people suffer from a stroke each year, some proving deadly. (1) A stroke occurs when the oxygen supply is cut off or interrupted from the brain. Stroke symptoms include paralysis in the face, arm or leg, sudden weakness on one side of the body and the sudden inability to speak. Being able to recognize the warning signs of a stroke can help save your life in the case of an emergency. Conventional stroke treatment varies, but there are plenty of natural ways to help your body recover.

Types of Stroke

Ischemic Stroke: Occurs when blood vessels in the brain or neck are blocked, cutting off the circulation of blood and oxygen to the brain. Leading causes include thrombosis, embolism and stenosis. (2)

Occurs when blood vessels in the brain or neck are blocked, cutting off the circulation of blood and oxygen to the brain. Leading causes include thrombosis, embolism and stenosis. (2) Hemorrhagic Stroke: Account for 10-15% of stroke cases, but 30-60% of stroke-related deaths. Occurs when a blood vessel ruptures, leaking blood into the brain, due to an aneurysm or arteriovenous malformation. (3)

Stroke Causes and Risk Factors

High blood pressure

Being overweight

Diabetes

Smoking

Family history of strokes

High cholesterol

Alcohol abuse

Drug use

Sleep disorders

Vitamin D deficiency

Using artificial sweeteners

Stroke Symptoms

The word “FAST” can help you remember the warning signs of a stroke. (4) FAST stands for:

Face: Smile into the mirror does one side of the face droop?

Smile into the mirror does one side of the face droop? Arms: Raise both arms above your head, does one drift or fall, or is one arm unable to raise?

Raise both arms above your head, does one drift or fall, or is one arm unable to raise? Speech: Repeat a simple phrase, is the speech slurred or strange?

Repeat a simple phrase, is the speech slurred or strange? Time: If you recognize any of these warning signs of a stroke, dial 911 immediately.

Other stroke symptoms include:

Headache that is unusual and severe

Inability to speak

Sudden weakness on one side of the body

Paralysis in the face, arm or leg

Sudden numbness or tingling in any part of the body, including the face

Severe muscle stiffness that comes on rapidly

Unsteady walk or poor balance resulting in staggering, weaving or veering

Vision loss, blurred vision, double vision or trouble focusing

Seizure

Dizziness, nausea and vomiting

Irregular breathing

Confusion and memory loss

Loss of consciousness

Stroke Treatment

1. Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation for stroke treatment may include physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists and more. Therapy can help stroke survivors improve physical function, cognitive thinking, communication and coping skills. (5)

2. Exercise

Studies have shown that exercising regularly can help reduce your risk for a stroke. After a stroke, physical activity can help improve balance and coordination while building strength. Follow the exercise plan given to you by your therapist.

3. Black or Green Tea

Research has shown that drinking at least three cups of black or green tea daily can reduce your risk of having a stroke. After a stroke, black and green tea can help boost heart health, lower stress levels, improve blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of additional strokes. (6)

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