No one over the age of 50 not even a lifelong athlete in seemingly excellent health is free from the risk of stroke. However there are some preventive measures believed to limit the recurrence and the extent of damages. Neurologist Bhuvana Mandalapu, MD, of Divija Neurology Center, provides more information and tips to help prevent stroke.

"With people living longer and the modern era of pre-made and pre-packaged foods, the rate of strokes has increased. Over the last several decades, stroke prevention measures have not changed much, but more awareness about stroke and its devastating nature are getting wider publicity," says Dr. Mandalapu.

"The most important part of stroke prevention is what is known as primary prevention. Other than genetically predisposing components, the way we eat, live and care for our bodies are the primary ways we can impact our risk. Other than your primary care physician, the people who may be most important in stroke prevention are parents - and how they supervise what their children eat, help develop dietary habits, choose active daily lifestyles and make a conscious effort to keep body and mind healthy."

Primary Stroke Prevention Measures

Dr. Mandalapu has the following preventive tips for those who wish to impact their risk of stroke:

• Eat a healthy diet with adequate daily proportions of protein, fat, carbohydrates, nutrients, vitamins and minerals that do not exceed the total calorie need for the individual's Body Mass Index. This will avoid excess accumulation of body fat and diet induced obesity.
• Get adequate regular exercise to increase endurance and burn or utilize excess calories.
• Maintain a healthy mind with special consideration to controlling stress, exhaustion and emotions.
• Get enough sleep without indulging in excess laziness of body and mind.
• Avoid alcohol, smoking and other stimulants.

"Despite all these efforts, if medical issues arise such as high blood pressure, Diabetes, high cholesterol or absorption issues that cause vitamin deficiencies, get treatment for the conditions and monitor it regularly," he adds.

Seasonal Precautions

Surprisingly, seasonal activities sometime impact the risk of stroke Dr. Mandalapu explains.

• Summer. "The elderly are more at risk of stroke during the summer due to dehydration either because of inadequate fluid intake or medications that cause impaired sweating and heat exhaustion with outdoor activity. Stay well hydrated and be aware of medications and their side effects."
• Holidays. "Inadequate intake of water and excessive consumption of alcohol that can lead to related complications including hemorrhagic and infraction strokes is worth mentioning. Limit alcohol intake to one glass of wine or beer every other day for femalesdue to a slower liver metabolismand one glass of wine or beer every day for males."

Nutritional Supplements

"While many people take numerous dietary supplements, there is no miracle supplement pill as of yet," adds Dr. Mandalapu. "Supplements that contain B6, B12, and folate as a combination pill such as Foltx and MVI may be taken daily. Ask your physician to test you for any specific vitamin deficiencies. People at high risk for stroke may need to have their homocysteine, methionine or B12, and folate levels checked. Some supplements such as fish oils and garlic are noted to have good effects on blood vessels."

Preventive Screening Tests

Dr. Mandalapu recommends a screening visit with your primary care physician.

"Have your doctor review your history, do an examination and evaluate your risk factors such as your lipid profile, blood pressure, blood sugar, thyroid, and homocysteine levels. If you are found to be in a high risk group, your doctor may refer you for further screenings such as the carotid ultrasound duplex and Transcranial Doppler (TCD) which are two cost effective, inexpensive tests that provide useful information. There are additional screenings that can be done should your physician find it necessary," he says.

"In summary, the most effective way to reduce your risk of stroke is to lead a healthy lifestyle and get regular checkups with your primary care physician."

For More Information

GoodHealth.com's online health encyclopedia provides much more information on Healthy Weight, including several useful interactive tools.

Bhuvana Mandalapu,M.D.
Neurology
Divija Neurology Center
11111 Research Blvd. Ste. 330
Phone: (512) 617-1840

Dr. Mandalapu is a neurologist and internist with Divija Neurology Center in Northwest Austin. He specialized in adult neurology at Tulane University Medical Center and is certified in Neurovascular Ultrasound for Transcranial and Carotid Doppler studies. He is board certified in Internal Medicine. He is a member of the American Society of NeuroImaging, the American Academy of Neurology, the Texas Medical Association and the Travis County Medical Society.