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5 things you must do now to stop stroke from happening

Stroke, which is the leading cause of adult disability, occurs when the blood supply to the brain is affected.

Stroke, which is the leading cause of adult disability, occurs when the blood supply to the brain is affected.

Certain risk factors can increase your chances of having a stroke. If you happen to have already had a stroke or mini-stroke, then it is important for you to take note of the following tips that can help you reduce the risk of stroke.

Stop smoking

Smoking increases your risk of stroke by 1.5 to 2.5 times. As you stop smoking, you reduce your risk of smoking significantly. Nothing works better than quitting smoking. If you have difficulties in doing so, consult your doctor.

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Lose weight

Try and maintain an ideal body weight. Doctors say obesity, which is the accumulation of excess body fat, is associated with various stroke risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. So, endeavour to lose weight by simply having a healthy diet and exercising regularly.

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Eat a healthy diet

Cut back on excessive salt alcohol consumption, as this contributes to high blood pressure. Eat more of vegetables, fruits, fat-free foods, fish, poultry, and other foods with healthy unsaturated fats. And always remember to eat less sugar and red meat.

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Take regular exercises

Regular exercise helps to reduce obesity and also aid in managing high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol. Try to exercise at least 3-5 times a week, probably 30 minutes each time. You must find kinds of physical activity you enjoy. You could speak to your doctor about the exercise regime which will suit your lifestyle and be right for you.

Know the signs of stroke

A stroke is often preceded by warning symptoms called a transient ischemic attack (TIA). A TIA is a form of a mini stroke, usually lasting for only a few minutes and causing no permanent damage.

But a TIA can serve as a warning of an impending stroke and an opportunity to take steps to prevent it.

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About 1 in 3 people who have a transient ischemic attack will eventually have a stroke, with about half occurring within a year after the transient ischemic attack, doctors say.

According to healthxchange.com.sg, the symptoms of TIA include facial drooping when the person is asked to smile; arm weakness where the arm drifts when raised; and speech that is slurred or cannot be understood.

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