Stroke Screenings: Before Stroke Strikes
Each year n the US, there are about 795,000 people who experiences stroke. Most of these cases are first attacks while other instances are repeated attacks. Similarly, each year more than 140,000 people die because of this sudden disruption in the blood supply of the brain. Worse, in every 40 seconds, someone in the US experiences this abrupt attack. Now, these numbers are not to scare you. These statistics should serve as a warning for you to take care of your health. Determining your possibility of being stroked can greatly work for your advantage. Moreover, this should also be an encouragement to take stroke screenings.
Are you at risk of acquiring this disease or suffering this condition? Undergoing preventive health screenings can help you answer this question. Most of the time, you will not give importance in taking health tests believing that you are strong, healthy, and disease-free. But most of chronic diseases and conditions do not have direct warning signs or clear symptoms that make it hard for you to easily determine what you are feeling or to make a self-diagnosis. This is why seeking professional medical service is advised for accurate diagnosis.
The Risk Factors
Prior to consulting health experts, an easy way to identify the possibility of getting a stroke can be based on the risk factors. If you meet most of these factors then you are likely to be up for this sudden attack. The most common factors include the following: age, family history, race, gender, previous attacks. Those aged 55 and above are very prone to stroke. When someone in your family too had this before, heredity can increase your risk. African-Americans are more in danger than Caucasians. Also, men as compared to women are more prone. Additionally, those who have high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and an unhealthy lifestyle such as heavy smoking and inactivity are also likely to make you a victim.
Taking Health Screenings
If you feel that you are a perfect candidate for stroke, then maybe it is time for you to undergo stroke screenings. There are actually various ways to determine and understand your risk. Carotid Artery Disease Screening is a painless and non-invasive procedure which is like an ultrasound for the neck. It shows the possible formation of plaque and the pace of blow in the arteries. There is also the Atrial Fibrillation Screening. Through an EKG, you can identify whether the rate of your heart beat is normal or abnormal. A-Fib or abnormal heart rhythm can cause a clot that which can reach the brain and causes stroke. On the other hand, a Complete Lipid Panel Screening is designed to help you monitor your cholesterol levels. Additionally, there’s also a Glucose Screening for Type 2 Diabetes which is regarded as a contributing risk factor.
Act Early for your Health
Never neglect the importance of your health. While you may be sure that you are strong and healthy, it will be better if you can increase that feeling of sureness. It will make you feel more secured if you know you are not a likely candidate for stroke, considered as the 4th leading killer disease in the US. Take stroke screenings today and feel safe and worry-free.