Lake Regional Health System | Thrive | Fall 2018

8 | Fall 2018 I n the past 40 seconds, someone in the United States had a stroke. But chances are that stroke — which might be deadly or cause a severe disability — didn’t have to happen. That’s because most strokes are preventable. “You can’t control every risk factor for stroke — for example, family history or growing older — but focusing on what you can control can put the odds more in your favor,” says Lake Regional Neurologist Philip Kurle, M.D. Here are two major risk factors and tips for taking charge. High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke. It is now defined by the American Heart Association as 130/80 mm Hg and above. Take charge: High blood pressure rarely causes symptoms, so get yours checked regularly. If it’s high, work with your doctor to bring it down to a healthy level. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular heartbeat. If you have it, you’re five times more likely to have a stroke than someone without it. Take charge: Many people with AFib have no noticeable symptoms. You might notice a racing or fluttering heartbeat, or feel short of breath or light- headed. If so, tell your doctor. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for AFib, so keeping your blood pressure in a healthy range can help prevent AFib. Get support Lake Regional hosts a stroke survivor support group , third Wednesday of each month at 1 p.m., in the hospital’s third floor conference rooms. “This monthly support group helps stroke survivors continue on the road to recovery,” said Crystal Lloyd, R.N., Lake Regional’s stroke coordinator. “It provides an opportunity to ask questions, share concerns and learn from fellow survivors.” To learn more, call Crystal Lloyd at 573-302-2959 . EMERGENCY Are you at risk for stroke?