Stroke risk significantly increased in high blood pressure

Every year, almost 270.000 people in Germany suffer from StrokeEven though the risk of a stroke increases with age, cerebral infarction is not a "disease of old age". According to the German Stroke Foundation, almost 80% of those affected are older than 60 years, and 20% are younger.

Almost 270.000 people in Germany suffer a stroke every year. Even though the risk of a stroke increases with age, cerebral infarction is not a "disease of old age". According to the German Stroke Foundation, almost 80% of those affected are older than 60 years, and 20% younger. "In order to be able to assess the individual risk of a stroke in good time, a thorough check-up A consultation with a specialist is highly recommended. This allows possible circulatory disorders of the brain to be detected early and risk factors for a stroke such as certain pre-existing conditions and high blood pressure to be identified,” emphasizes Dr. Reinhold Lunow, internist and medical director of the practice clinic Bornheim, near Cologne and Bonn. Because people who are overweight, Hypertension (hypertension) or chronic Diseases Who Diabetes are particularly at risk of suffering a stroke. This group of patients is at a higher risk of developing life-threatening vascular constrictions, which can ultimately lead to a stroke. "According to scientific findings, however, lowering high blood pressure can reduce the risk of stroke by up to 40% within a short period of time," emphasizes Dr. Lunow.

Vascular check for stroke prevention is a must

This shows the great importance of regular medical check-ups and early intervention. As part of a vascular check, the specialized internist checks the blood pressure, all relevant blood values ​​and uses Doppler sonography to examine the carotid artery (so-called directional Doppler sonography) and the brain vessels (so-called transcranial Doppler sonography). "After the check-up, we will discuss your individual risk of stroke with you and, depending on the results of the examination, we will use medication to treat any high blood pressure you may have and elevated cholesterol or blood sugar levels," explains Dr. Lunow.

Stroke: Active Prevention

High cholesterol and blood sugar levels, which damage the blood vessels, can also be prevented by a low-fat diet. Nutrition can be counteracted. "We recommend a balanced diet with lots of fruit and vegetables, lean meat and fish and no rich sauces. Sweets should only be enjoyed now and then and in moderation. Above all, giving up smoking and excessive alcohol consumption prevents increasing calcification of the arteries. If you notice any abnormalities, we will advise you on nutritional medicine in our practice clinic for diagnostics and preventive medicine, possibly draw up an exercise plan with you and, if necessary, provide intensive support with smoking cessation," emphasises the medical director.

Take stroke warning signs seriously!

Take possible warning signs of a stroke seriously! If you suspect a problem with the blood flow to the brain, which can manifest itself in a tingling or numb feeling in a part of your body, sudden speech problems or unexplained dizziness, you should immediately go to a clinic or a stroke unit that specializes in strokes. In order to avoid subsequent damage, every second counts in the event of a stroke! And it is best to take all preventive measures to prevent it from happening in the first place!

Caption: Measuring the vessel wall to assess the risk of stroke
Image source: ©Praxisklinik Bornheim, Medical Director Dr. Lunow