The expert named the categories of citizens at risk of stroke

The main risk groups for stroke include people with chronic diseases: hypertension is the main risk factor, atherosclerosis, and diabetes mellitus. In addition, the risk of stroke increases dramatically after 55-60 years, while men have strokes more often at a younger age, and women after menopause. Oksana Pivovarova, Professor of the Department of Therapy at the Medical Faculty of the State University of Education, therapist, told Izvestia about this on May 13.

According to the expert, people suffering from atrial fibrillation, obesity, and people with high levels of stress are also at risk.

"Those who lead a sedentary lifestyle are people with a hereditary predisposition. Women taking oral contraceptives while smoking, hormone therapy during menopause, and women after pregnancy complications are also at risk," the doctor added.

The risk of stroke is higher in those who have suffered transient ischemic attacks (TIA) — this is a kind of "warning" stroke, after which the risk of a full-fledged one increases dramatically. People who have suffered minor strokes are also more prone to stroke.

The doctor explained that such bad habits as smoking, alcohol abuse and drug addiction can lead to a stroke.

The disease can be suspected by the sudden appearance of symptoms associated with impaired brain function. The "BUMP" rule is used for quick diagnosis.

"Smile (ask a person to smile) — one corner of the mouth is down, the smile is crooked. Movement (ask to raise both hands in front of you) — one hand weakens, falls or does not rise. Articulation (ask to repeat a simple phrase, for example, "the sky is blue") — speech is slurred, confused or absent," Pivovarova shared.

She warned that if there is at least one symptom, an ambulance team must be urgently called.

Other possible symptoms of stroke include sudden dizziness, loss of balance, severe headache, visual impairment (double vision, loss of field of vision), confusion, disorientation, nausea, vomiting (more often with cerebral hemorrhage).

The expert noted that a stroke can develop in minutes and is not always accompanied by pain. Even if the symptoms have passed, for example, with a micro—stroke, urgent hospitalization is needed, since the risk of a second stroke is high. You can not wait until it passes — the "golden window" for thrombolysis — the dissolution of a blood clot — up to 4.5 hours.

To reduce the risk of stroke, it is important to control blood pressure and cholesterol levels, stop smoking and alcohol, monitor weight and diet: less salt, fat, more vegetables, move regularly: walking, swimming, exercise. It is also important to treat chronic diseases such as diabetes and arrhythmia.

One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of stroke, according to the expert, is regular physical activity. She identified the best exercises for stroke prevention. Among them, cardio exercises — these exercises improve the functioning of the heart and blood vessels, reduce blood pressure. Pivovarova recommended practicing brisk walking for 30-60 minutes a day, swimming 2-3 times a week for 30-45 minutes.

In addition, cycling or an exercise bike will benefit the heart – 20-40 minutes, Nordic walking and dancing — they improve coordination and mood.

At the same time, the expert noted the importance of moderate strength training. They strengthen blood vessels and muscles, and help control weight. She recommended squats — 3 sets of 10-15 times, push-ups from the wall or floor to strengthen the shoulder girdle. Exercises with rubber bands are also useful, as they are a safe alternative to iron, and toe lifts improve blood circulation in the legs.

Flexibility and balance exercises, the expert claims, reduce the risk of falls and improve cerebral circulation. Among them are yoga, tai chi - soft movements that improve coordination, neck and shoulder stretching (head tilts, arm rotations).

"Breathing practices reduce stress and normalize blood pressure. Deep diaphragmatic breathing (5-10 minutes a day). The "4-7-8" technique (inhale for 4, hold for 7, exhale for 8). The main thing is regularity. Even 15-20 minutes a day reduces the risk of stroke by 25-30%," the specialist concluded.

Earlier, 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.