Strokes and Diabetes

Diabetics are much more likely to have strokes than nondiabetics. There are several reasons for this. Diabetics with uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension are more likely to suffer a decline in mental ability as they get older because the arteries to the brain start to narrow. High blood pressure affects the brain because of narrowing of the blood vessels to the brain. When brain cells cannot get oxygen they die, leading to a stroke. A stroke occurs when an artery to the brain is clogged or bursts. Bleeding in the brain caused by an injury can also cause a stroke.

A stroke cuts off oxygen to the brain, so it is life-threatening. Strokes can affect behavior, speech, senses, thought, and memory, and cause paralysis, coma, and even death. The part of the brain that has damaged tissue will not function as it should. Consider the risk factors for a stroke carefully. You may feel fine and think you are doing well, but suddenly you have a stroke and it is too late to do anything about prevention. Take precautions.

Some risk factors for a stroke are:

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• High blood cholesterol
• Family history of stroke
• Smoking
• Heavy use of alcohol
• No exercise
• Obesity, especially for those whose fat is predominately in the abdomen area; keeping weight down is crucial.
• Stress can be a risk factor for stroke because it can cause blood pressure to rise sharply and lead to brain hemorrhage.
• A previous stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (mini-stroke), also known as a TIA.

Symptoms for a stroke include strenuous breathing, sudden weakness, or numbness in the face, arms, and legs. If paralysis occurs, it usually affects only one side of the body; you could have difficulty speaking or understanding speech. There may be unexplained dizziness, unsteadiness, or a sudden and severe headache before the attack. If a stroke is suspected, call for an ambulance and go to the hospital. Do not attempt to take them to the hospital yourself unless you have no other choice.

You need to eat healthy. Include more raw fruits and vegetables in your diet, eat low-fat dairy foods, and limit your sodium intake. Eat in moderation, foods high in trans-fats. Saturated fats and trans-fats raise LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. Some foods that trans-fats are found in are margarine, fried potatoes, salad dressings, candies, and commercially prepared foods such as cookies and cakes. Consume more monounsaturated fats (found in almonds), and cook with pure virgin olive oil. Omega-3 fatty acids are good heart health. Beware of chemicals in your food like caffeine, MSG, and other food additive: watch for hidden ingredients in foods.