Stroke and Hypertension: Understanding the Risks and Prevention
By Gloria Hairston, Director of Public Affairs
May is Stroke Awareness Month which is dedicated to raising awareness about preventing, treating, and beating strokes.
Stroke and hypertension are closely linked medical conditions that significantly impact public health. Hypertension is commonly known as high blood pressure, and is a chronic condition characterized by elevated blood pressure levels in the arteries. A stroke, on the other hand, is a sudden interruption in the blood supply to the brain, leading to damage to brain tissue. Strokes are preventable when you know the signs and you act fast!
It is crucial to "BE FAST" and seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 when a stroke is suspected.
Know the Signs of a Stroke. If you identify the following, time is important, call 911:
B – Balance Issues
E – Eyesight Changes
F- Facial Drooping
A – Arm Weakness
S – Speech Difficulty
T – Time to Call 911
Hypertension and Stroke
Hypertension is a leading risk factor for stroke. Prolonged high blood pressure puts strain on the blood vessels throughout the body, including those in the brain. Over time, this can lead to the weakening and narrowing of arteries, making them more susceptible to blockages or ruptures.
When a blood vessel supplying the brain is blocked by a clot (ischemic stroke) or ruptures, causing bleeding into the brain (hemorrhagic stroke), the result is a stroke.
Risk Factors for Stroke and Hypertension
- Poorly controlled hypertension (blood pressure)
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Obesity
- Lack of physical activity
- Poor eating habits
- Non-compliance with prescribed medication
Management
- Regular Monitoring of Blood Pressure: Date and time of recording, record the same time every day.
- Check your blood pressure at home with a home blood pressure monitor.
- Keep appointments with physicians for blood pressure monitoring.
- Stay connected if you are enrolled in telehealth.
Hypertension is a major risk factor for stroke, emphasizing the importance of effective management and prevention strategies. Increased public awareness and proactive health measures can significantly mitigate the risks associated with these conditions. Consider speaking with your VA health care provider to assist with healthy diet education, a physical activity routine that is right for you, and taking steps to quit smoking and avoid alcohol consumption. Your DC VAMC has programs, resources, and treatment opportunities to help you to modify your lifestyle for better health and wellness.
If you have concern about your health, consult your VA primary care team and speak with your DC VAMC Stroke Coordinator, Durga Muppala, RN. Email Durga.Muppala@va.gov for more information about identifying the signs of a stroke.