Neurologist names serious condition considered hereditary
Can a stroke be hereditary (photo: Freepik)
Stroke is the second leading cause of death globally. It has been found to have a genetic component, so it's important to be cautious.
RBC-Ukraine reports on why it's important to be cautious if one of your parents has had a stroke.
Why stroke is hereditary
In some cases, individuals whose parents have had a stroke or other cardiovascular diseases may also be at risk.
However, the majority of strokes are associated with external factors.
Ukrainian neurologist Kateryna Karpinska mentioned that to prevent the disease, attention should be paid to one's lifestyle:
- Control blood pressure (normal range: 120/80)
- Monitor blood sugar levels (normal range: up to 6 mmol/L) and blood fats
- Maintain a healthy diet (rich in vegetables and fruits, protein, plant fats)
- Engage in moderate physical activity and sports
- Quit smoking and minimize alcohol consumption
- Ensure healthy sleep (8 hours)
- Undergo preventive ultrasound of blood vessels after the age of 40
Symptoms of stroke
The symptoms of a stroke depend on the affected part of the brain.
Typically, the following symptoms occur during a stroke:
- Inability to smile, often with one corner of the mouth drooping.
- Difficulty speaking clearly, with slurred or confused speech.
- Inability to raise arms or weakness in one arm.
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the torso and limbs. It's worth noting that sometimes a stroke can manifest solely as a severe headache.
The risk of stroke increases with the number and severity of risk factors.
Among them are those that can be addressed with medical treatment after consulting with a doctor.
Primary risk factors
Age
Stroke occurs in all age groups, but the risk increases between the age of 55 and 85.
Gender
Men have a higher risk of stroke at a younger and middle age, but more women die from stroke at an older age.
Family history of the disease
Family members may have a genetic predisposition to stroke risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, etc.
Smoking
Cigarette smoking doubles the risk of ischemic stroke and increases the likelihood of hemorrhagic stroke by four times.
Heart diseases
Ischemic heart disease, valve defects, atrial fibrillation, and enlargement of one of the heart chambers can lead to the formation of clots that may rupture and block blood vessels in the brain.
Diabetes
It causes destructive changes in blood vessels throughout the body, including the brain. If blood glucose levels are high during a stroke, brain damage is usually more severe than when blood glucose is normal.
Earlier, we reported on 5 inexpensive canned products that will help you stay healthy.
We also wrote about cases where blood pressure should not be measured under any circumstances.
Sources: Instagram page of Ukrainian neurologist Kateryna Karpinska and the website of the Public Health Center.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
