Nearly 133,000 people die from a stroke each year and what is surprising is that 80% of all strokes are preventable. A stroke is the 5^th leading cause of death and about 75% of strokes are for the first time. High blood pressure is a condition that contributes to strokes (American Stroke Association) https://www.heart.org/ . Managing blood pressure is significant in the reduction of a massive stroke. My grandfather had many strokes and was unable to speak and was paralyzed on one side of his body. I remember him being very frustrated because he knew in his mind what he wanted to say but he could not form the words to communicate.

A stroke is when blood flow is cut off to the brain so those brain cells do not receive the oxygen they need to survive and will therefore die. A Hemorrhagic stroke is when a brain aneurism bursts or a blood vessel in the brain leaks. An Ischemic Stroke is when a blood vessel to the brain is blocked by a blood clot. Risk for these kinds of stroke increase with age.

Some signs and symptoms to look for are:

• Face Drooping
• Arm Weakness
• Speech difficulty
• Trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance
• Difficulty understanding

There are several things to do to help prevent a stroke and managing blood pressure is a significant in reducing this risk. Here are a few other things to do that will help reduce this risk:

• Exercise
• Healthy diet
• Reduce stress
• Increase humor
• Keep a positive outlook
• Stay connected with family and friends

Recovery from a stroke is a lifetime effort because brain cells have died. You may have lost partial ability to move certain parts of your body or elements of speech, or even memory issues. Physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy can all help with the recovery process. The earlier you are to getting help when a stroke strikes the chances are better that you may have more of a full recovery. Try to get help within 3 hours.

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