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 Preventing A Stroke
Warning Signs
By Dr. Rita Louise
All rights reserved
We experience a stroke when the flow of blood to our brain is interrupted. There
are two kinds of strokes: ischemic and hemorrhagic. The more common of the two
is the ischemic stroke. This type is characterized by a blockage to an artery
that carries blood to the brain. A hemorrhagic stoke, on the other hand, is
diagnosed when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds, depositing blood
into the spaces that surround brain cells.
Individuals can also experience what is termed a “mini-stroke” or Transient
Ischemic Attack (TIA). A TIA is a kind of ischemic stroke. In the instance of a
TIA, the blood supply to the brain is only interrupted for a short period of
time, typically 15 minutes or less.
Whatever the form, a stroke is a medical emergency. Getting treatment right
after the onset of symptoms can prevent permanent damage, especially if the
blood supply to the brain can be restored quickly. By recognizing the warning
signs of a stroke, emergency help can be sought right away.
The symptoms of a stroke come on suddenly and include: a sudden numbness or
weakness of the face, arm or leg — especially on one side of the body; sudden
trouble with speaking, loss of speech, or understanding the speech of others;
trouble seeing out of one or both eyes; trouble walking, loss of balance or
coordination; or simply feeling dizzy. General confusion can also be an
indication of a stroke, as well as a sudden severe headache without apparent
cause.
Because the nerve cells of the brain communicate with all parts of the body,
damage due to a stroke can impair the body’s ability to function. A common
disability that results from a stroke is complete or partial paralysis on one
side of the body. Damage can also manifest as weakness, numbness or pain,
difficulty communicating or swallowing, or a loss of vision. Other effects of a
stroke can include memory loss, confusion, poor judgment, a change in one’s
personality, or even emotional problems.
If you think you are experiencing a stroke, call 911 right away and seek
professional help. If you have a history of heart disease, atherosclerosis, high
blood pressure, high cholesterol, carotid artery disease, uncontrolled diabetes,
tobacco use, or have had Transient Ischemic Strokes (TIA) in the past, it is a
good idea to incorporate natural, holistic remedies and alternative health
measures into your life to reduce your risk of having a stroke.
Recommendations For Health
Consume a diet that is high in fiber and low in fat, including plenty of fruits,
vegetables and whole grains. Avoid foods that are high in saturated fats. This
will not only help reduce your body’s cholesterol levels, but it can also help
to decrease high blood pressure as well.
Cut back on salt.
If you are diabetic, keep your blood sugar levels under control by reducing your
consumption of starchy foods that are high in carbohydrates and sugar.
Start an exercise program. Obesity is often associated with an increased risk of
having a stroke.
Vitamin E and Omega 3 oils such as those found in flax seeds, fish oils, olive
oil, and raw nuts have been shown to have anti-clotting properties which support
blood flow throughout the body and the brain.
Garlic has historically been shown to prevent strokes by reducing blood
pressure, lowering cholesterol and preventing clots from developing.
Ginkgo biloba can be used to increase blood flow to the brain and is known to
help prevent blood clots from developing in the first place.
Ginger can be used to help poor circulation, and prevents the blood from
clotting excessively.
It has been reported that people who take potassium supplements have a reduced
risk of having a stroke.
Some evidence indicates that supplementation with calcium may reduce the risk of
ischemic strokes in women.
© Copyright Body, Mind &
SoulHealer – www.soulhealer.com 2008. All rights reserved.
Dr. Rita Louise, Ph.D., is a Naturopathic Physician, the founder of the
Institute of Applied Energetics, as well as host of the internet, Just Energy
Radio. She is author of, Avoiding the Cosmic 2x4 and The Power Within. Her
unique gift as a medical intuitive and professional clairvoyant enlivens her
work. Vsit www.soulhealer.com
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