Don’t have a stroke!
Stroke factors vary from women to women, but diabetes, heart disease, depression and emotional stress contribute. Another major cause? Uncontrolled high blood pressure. Called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure can lead to a stroke by damaging and weakening the brain’s blood vessels, causing them to narrow, rupture or leak. You can beat high blood pressure by knowing your numbers! Keep your blood pressure under 120/80. High blood pressure doubles – and may quadruple –your stroke risk if it’s left uncontrolled.Lower your odds for a heart attack or stroke
Diet: Reduce salt and sugars. Say goodbye to high-cholesterol foods (burgers, cheese, ice cream and junk food). Say hello to 4-5 cups of fruit and vegetables daily; one serving of fish two or three times a week; add more whole grains, and choose low-fat dairy. Exercise: Get 30 minutes of activity at least five times a week. Smoking: Quit! Alcohol: Drink moderately. (One glass of alcohol a day, or none) Weight: Lose it. Even 10 pounds makes a difference.Know the signs
Women are more likely than men to have heart attack symptoms other than only chest pain.- Neck, jaw, shoulder, upper back or abdominal discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in one or both arms
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sweating
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Unusual fatigue