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Stroke is a serious, life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked, depriving brain cells of oxygen. The effects can be devastating, potentially resulting in death or, for survivors, long-lasting disability. It is highly widespread in nature, as according to the World Stroke Organization, 100 million people experience a stroke worldwide. What makes this even more troubling is that some strokes can happen suddenly. Many risk factors are responsible for this.
Also read: Bengaluru neurologist explains why menopausal women are at higher risk of stroke, reveals 5 signs: ‘Unexplained headache…’
Dr Ritu Jha, Director and HOD of Neurology at Sarvodaya Hospital, Sector-8, Faridabad, shared with HT Lifestyle that risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol are not present. Managing these helps reduce the risks. What is even more worrying is that many people around the world suffer from these conditions, increasing the risk of stroke in millions of people.
How do the three work together?
High blood pressure, diabetes and increased cholesterol may seem to be separate health issues, but they are all deeply interconnected.
“Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol levels do not occur in isolation. When one presents itself, the rest follow,” Dr. Jha told us. They all work together to silently put a strain on your body, affecting major organs and ultimately causing life-threatening conditions like stroke.
He further explained how exactly they work together, “High blood pressure puts pressure on the arteries, diabetes makes those same blood vessels thicker and weaker, and excess cholesterol deposits sticky deposits on them.”
According to neurologists, soon, over time, these conditions make it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently. Blood vessels become hard, narrow, or blocked, making it a challenge for oxygen and nutrients to reach the organs. Dr. Jha warned that apart from stroke, this trio can also lead to heart attacks and kidney problems.
Necessary tests that help in management
Dr Jha urged people to get tested regularly, as it helps keep track of their health. He suggested these important tests:
1. Blood pressure measurement shows the amount of effort being made by the heart.
2. Glycated hemoglobin or fasting blood sugar is used to diagnose diabetes in the early stages.
3. Lipid profile is a test of your good and bad cholesterol.
4. Kidney tests and ECG may be used to monitor the performance of your body organs if you already have risk factors.
Be careful of these habits
The neurologist highlighted the importance of changing habits to reduce the risk of lifestyle diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels.
He advised avoiding skipping meals or eating processed food, sitting for too long, not getting enough sleep or being under constant stress. Instead, Dr. Jha recommended consistent exercise, home-cooked meals, reducing salt and sugar, and avoiding tobacco.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
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