• Monitor your blood sugar. Diabetes can also raise the risk of stroke.
• Make sure you’re getting enough Vitamin B. This can lower blood levels of homocysteine, which can increase risk of blood clots and clogged arteries.
• If you suffer from a sleep disorder called sleep apnea, consult with your doctor. Sleep apnea, a condition where you repeatedly stop breathing at brief intervals during the night, has been linked to stroke.
About stroke
Health experts urge that you call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Weakness – Sudden loss of strength or sudden numbness in the face, arm or leg, even if temporary.
Trouble speaking – Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding or sudden confusion, even if temporary.
Vision problems – Sudden trouble with vision, even if temporary.
Headache – Sudden severe and unusual headache.
Dizziness – Sudden loss of balance, especially with any of the above signs.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation estimates that there are between 40,000 to 50,000 strokes in Canada each year, and 300,000 Canadians living with the effects of stroke. Strokes kill 45 per cent more women than men, according to the organization.
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