As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. One stand-out area where this maxim holds true is in the prevention of stroke. High blood pressure and cholesterol levels are among the most significant risk factors for stroke. Dr Ameer Hassan Texas will discuss how a person can monitor these factors to mitigate the risk of stroke.
High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Silent Stalkers
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a situation where the force of the blood against artery walls stays high over time. As a major risk factor for stroke, hypertension can cause damage to blood vessels leading to the brain, pre-setting the stage for a stroke.
Similarly, high cholesterol levels can also pose a serious threat. There are two types of cholesterol: Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), known as bad cholesterol, and High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), known as good cholesterol. High levels of LDL can lead to the formation of plaques in arteries, increasing the odds of a stroke occurrence.
Checking Blood Pressure
- Using a Blood Pressure Monitor – Blood pressure can be checked at home using a home blood pressure monitor. This device features an arm cuff and a digital monitor that displays results. It’s crucial to ensure proper positioning and calibration of the device before measuring.
- Regular Doctor’s Check-ups – A doctor like Dr Ameer Hassan Texas can provide a comprehensive blood pressure check. Regular check-ups – typically once a year – are important, as hypertension often presents no symptoms.
Checking Cholesterol Levels
- Blood Test – The only way to measure cholesterol levels accurately is through a lipid profile blood test. This test measures total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides.
- Regular Testing – Regular cholesterol tests become increasingly important after the age of 20. If the results are normal, a test once every five years is generally adequate. However, if there’s a family history of high cholesterol levels, or if the person is overweight or has diabetes, more frequent testing may be necessary.
Ways to Control High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
Physical activity can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels significantly. Aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week can help control both these factors. It is recommended to follow a diet full of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while keeping a minimum intake of processed foods, salt, and fat.
Other than that, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to keeping blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check. Even losing a small amount of weight can have a significant impact on these levels. Lastly, alcohol and smoking can raise blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Therefore, it’s wise to limit alcohol intake and quit smoking to keep these factors under control.
Understanding the Numbers to Unleash a Healthier Tomorrow
For Dr Ameer Hassan Texas, paying close attention to blood pressure and cholesterol levels is one of the most active steps towards stroke prevention.
By regularly checking these numbers, either at home or with a healthcare provider, people can track and manage these silent symptoms. Coupled with healthy lifestyle choices, understanding these numbers can provide the pathway to a healthier, stroke-free life. So, see those numbers not just as statistics, but as a guide to future health.
