193. Stroke Prevention 101 with medical experts from Medical City Lewisville

How can strokes be prevented?

Our beautiful brain hosts millions of cells, however, every minute that our brain goes without proper blood flow, 1.9 million brain cells die. This statistic is incredibly significant and brings home the importance of quick action when stroke symptoms appear. In this episode, I’m thrilled to have two exceptional guests from Medical City Lewisville, a top-notch hospital I can personally vouch for. Both guests are dedicated to stroke care and prevention:

Miranda Bik-Williams: A registered nurse and certified case manager with seven years at Medical City Lewisville, now serving as the stroke coordinator.
Holli Thornhill: Also a registered nurse and the Director for Quality Resources with 19 years of nursing experience, 14 of which have been at Medical City Lewisville. Holly has seen the effects of stroke firsthand and is a staunch advocate for preventive medicine.

Recognizing Stroke Symptoms: BE FAST

One of the best ways to remember the signs of a stroke is with the acronym “BE FAST”:

Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
Eyes: Vision loss or blurred vision
Face: Facial weakness or paralysis
Arms: Inability to lift arms or a drifting arm
Speech: Slurred speech or speaking incoherently
Time: Time to call 911 immediately at the first signs

When I hear how quickly brain cells die during a stroke, it underscores the need to call 911 immediately. Time is of the essence to save a life and prevent severe brain damage.

Causes and Risk Factors for Stroke

There are several causes and risk factors for strokes, many of which are preventable:

High blood pressure: The top risk factor.
Smoking: Nicotine constricts blood vessels.
Diabetes: Increases risk.
Diet: High cholesterol and fat intake contribute.
Physical inactivity: Leads to other contributing factors like obesity.
Underlying conditions: Atrial fibrillation, sleep apnea, peripheral artery disease, etc.

The Immediate Response to a Stroke

When 911 is called, EMS providers start treatment en route to the hospital, ensuring that vital, life-saving measures are begun even before arrival. This can make a significant difference in outcomes.

Quick hospital interventions include the administration of clot-busting medications, which must be given within a specific time frame and other procedures to physically remove clots. Knowing your last time of feeling normal is crucial to receive the appropriate treatment.

Understanding TIAs: A Warning Sign

Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs) or “mini-strokes” are significant warning signs. They should be treated with the same urgency as strokes. It’s critical to recognize them as yellow lights indicating a potential future stroke.

Prevention: Manage What You Can Control

Key factors:

Hypertension: Get it under control.
Diabetes: Manage blood sugar levels.
Quit Smoking: Reduces stroke risk.
Diet and Exercise: Adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Know Your Numbers: Cholesterol, blood pressure, etc.

The Impact of a Stroke and Recovery

Strokes create pathways for new neural pathways through rigorous and immediate rehabilitation, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Mark's journey highlighted the essential role rehab played in his recovery, and I’m thankful for the excellent rehab centers in the Dallas area.

Takeaways from this episode:

Be FAST: Every minute without proper blood flow results in the death of approximately 1.9 million brain cells, emphasizing the need to call 911 immediately when stroke symptoms are present.
High blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, poor diet, and lack of physical activity are significant, manageable risk factors for stroke. Regular check-ups and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce these risks.
Calling 911 ensures that EMS can begin treatment on the way to the hospital, significantly improving the chances of better outcomes. Early intervention, such as the administration of clot-busting medication or physical removal of clots, can be critical.
Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs) or "mini-strokes" are serious warning signs indicating a potential future stroke. Immediate medical attention and lifestyle changes are crucial to prevent actual strokes.