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Health by Robert MacMillan, MD One of the most common risks which we face as we age is that of having a stroke. Fortunately, the incidence of stroke and its e ects has lessened in recent years, due mainly to improved methods of reducing the risk, as well as recent advances in the early detection and treatment of stroke. To lessen long-term damage, it is important for us to be well aware of the things which we can do to avoid having a stroke and to understand the need for early treatment if one occurs. A stroke is brain damage which results from the sudden loss of blood supply to the brain. e most common type of stroke is a sudden blockage of blood ow in a vessel to the brain, resulting in damage to that part of the brain (ischemic stroke). When a blood vessel to the brain ruptures, the resulting hemorrhage results in brain damage (hemorrhagic stroke). Ischemic strokes are the most common, with only about 15% being hemorrhagic strokes. e most recent statistics reveal that almost 750,000 Canadians are living with the e ects of stroke, with women slightly exceedingmen. ree-quarters of those living with stroke are over the age of 65. e decline in the incidence of strokes is due in large part to the increased attention to, and proper management of the factors known to increase the risk of having a stroke. Since the chance of having a stroke doubles every decade a er the age of 55, it is important to know what you can do to lessen the risk. High blood pressure that goes untreated or poorly controlled is one of the most common factors. Taking your blood pressure at home, in the drug store or in the physician’s o ce is an important step that you should take to monitor your blood pressure, keeping it within normal levels. Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 but, as we age, it is common to have higher pressure. It is well-known that reducing salt intake, maintaining a normal weight, getting regular exercise, reducing fat intake, quitting smoking, managing stress and reducing alcohol consumption can all have a signi cant e ect in reducing blood pressure. When repeated measurements in various settings reveal pressures mostly over 140/90, the addition of regular daily medication is indicated. A single drug may achieve desired results but, inmany cases, more potent drugs or a combination of di erent types of drugs may be necessary. Ongoing monitoring of blood pressure to maintain normal levels is important and snowbirds in particular should carry a home blood pressure monitor and use drugstore machines to document their readings when away, seeking local medical assessment if readings are found to be high. Stroke Prevention and Treatment 38 | www.snowbirds.org

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