The doctor told about the habits that increase the risk of stroke

A brain stroke is a dangerous acute condition that occurs when the cerebral circulation is affected and leads to various kinds of neurological manifestations, up to a fatal outcome. Olga Zincheva, a neurologist and somnologist at the SM Clinic, told Izvestia on April 25 about what factors increase the risk of stroke up to the age of 50 and how to reduce the threat of this pathology.

According to the doctor, there are two types of stroke. The most common ischemic type occurs due to a blockage of a vessel, which leads to a lack of oxygen to nourish the tissues, and, as a result, the death of brain cells, the so—called cerebral ischemia. The larger the area of ischemia, the larger the area of the brain is damaged and, consequently, human functions are impaired.

Another type of stroke is hemorrhagic, which occurs as a result of a rupture of a vessel, which causes a brain hemorrhage. This species is more insidious and impetuous.

"Now let's talk about the factors contributing to the development of stroke. To begin with, it is worth mentioning the diseases that increase the risk. In particular, this is atherosclerosis, which often occurs due to improper nutrition: fatty, fried foods, the presence of "harmful" cholesterol," the specialist noted.

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The threat also increases in the presence of diabetes mellitus, as the vascular walls in such patients are thinner and more susceptible to damage. People with arterial hypertension should be especially careful, in which there is increased pressure on the walls of blood vessels, which can lead to its damage.

Risk factors, according to her, also include: sedentary lifestyle, the presence of bad habits (smoking, alcohol abuse), taking certain medications.

"Thus, taking anticoagulants reduces blood clotting, which causes hemorrhage when blood vessels are damaged. And contraceptives can lead to thrombosis, as a group of these drugs enhances blood clotting," explained the neurologist.

In addition, as the specialist noted, the hereditary factor is important in the development of this disease. However, today there are a number of genetic analyses that make it possible to assess the risks of stroke and, if necessary, develop a prevention plan.

The doctor explained that stroke prevention includes: a healthy lifestyle, sufficient physical activity, daily walking or cycling. Proper nutrition is also important — do not overeat, do not get carried away with fatty, meat-based foods, sugary drinks, and limit salt intake. You should also give up bad habits, ensure adequate sleep, and reduce stress risks. And, last but not least, to undergo medical examinations in a timely manner to identify diseases that lead to stroke and, of course, to treat them.

In conclusion, the specialist noted that when the first symptoms appear, it is necessary to immediately call an ambulance. Only a doctor can assess the severity of a patient's condition.

On April 23, Natalia Zolotareva, a cardiologist and somnologist at the SM Clinic, told Izvestia about the dangerous consequences of atherosclerosis. According to her, atherosclerosis can lead to heart attack, stroke and even gangrene. In addition, the first signs of the disease are not excluded in 20-30 years. However, in 80% of cases, serious consequences can be avoided. The cardiologist explained that atherosclerosis is a disease in which the walls of the arteries are covered with cholesterol deposits, calcium and other substances. At the same time, the vessels narrow and lose elasticity, and the blood barely makes its way through the congestion.