Should You Worry About Stroke?

There are few medical conditions that can strike fear into hearts as much as a stroke. Experiencing a stroke can be life-changing or, for nearly 130,000 American each year, suddenly life-ending.

At Vascular Specialists, Dr. Tanquilut and Dr. Pradhan believe that knowing more about strokes will ease the fear – and help prevent stroke in you.

WHAT EXACTLY IS A STROKE?

A stroke happens when blood flow to any area of the brain is cut off, depriving brain cells of oxygen and killing them.

HOW CAN THIS HAPPEN?

An ischemic stroke is caused by a blood vessel being blocked by a blood clot or fragment of plaque. A hemorrhagic stroke, accounting for about 15% of strokes, is caused by a weak blood vessel bursting.

WHO IS AT RISK?

While most strokes occur in people over 65, you are at a greater risk of stroke at any age if you smoke, have high blood pressure or diabetes or are overweight. African-Americans also tend to have a higher stroke risk.

CAN I PREVENT A STROKE?

The American Stroke Association says 85% of all strokes – nearly 676,000 each year, can be avoided. Changes to make include:

Stop smoking
Maintain a healthy weight
Exercise frequently
Control your blood pressure

IS STROKE ALWAYS PERMANENTLY DISABLING OR LIFE-ENDING?

No. The faster a victim gets emergency care, the better the chances are for recovery. If you have any suspicion that you or someone you’re with is having a stroke, call 911 immediately.

Right now, EVERY TWO MINUTES, THREE PEOPLE IN THE UNITED STATES EXPERIENCE A POTENTIALLY DEADLY STROKE. Through lifestyle changes, proper health care management and consistent exercise, that statistic can drop to just one person every five minutes.

CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR STROKE RISK? CALL VASCULAR SPECIALISTS AT 815-824-4406. Dr. Tanquilut and Dr. Pradhan, in New Lenox and Olympia Fields, are always happy to take the time to thoroughly explain and answer your questions.

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