Hypertension is the main cause of cerebral hemorrhage and cerebral infarction. Because patients with hypertension are most sensitive to sudden changes in temperature, situations such as getting up at night to urinate or suddenly getting cold can easily cause a significant increase in blood pressure, leading to cerebral hemorrhage, cerebral infarction, and acute myocardial infarction.
Prevention of Stroke in Hypertensive Patients:
1. Stabilize Blood Pressure
Both high and low blood pressure can lead to stroke. Patients with hypertension must take antihypertensive medication under the guidance of a physician. The ideal blood pressure target should be a systolic pressure of less than 140 mmHg and a diastolic pressure of less than 90 mmHg. Avoid using high doses of antihypertensive drugs to rapidly decrease blood pressure. Generally, it takes 2-3 months to lower blood pressure to the standard level.
2. Lower Blood Lipids
Hypertension combined with elevated blood lipids increases the risk of stroke. Along with controlling blood pressure, lipid-lowering medications should also be used.
3. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Intake
Hypertensive patients should not only quit smoking but also limit alcohol consumption, especially strong alcoholic beverages.
4. Prevent Blood Clotting
Platelet aggregation is a pathological factor in stroke. Hypertensive patients should use anticoagulant drugs to prevent blood clot formation.
5. Follow a Scientific and Reasonable Diet
Have balanced meals, avoid overeating, limit salt and sugar intake, and eat more fresh fruits and vegetables.
6. Maintain a Regular Lifestyle
Arrange your schedule properly, ensure sufficient sleep, maintain a positive and cheerful mood, avoid excessive stress, fatigue, and emotional excitement, and exercise regularly.
7. Actively and Effectively Control Diabetes
Effective control of diabetes is essential for preventing stroke.
8. Pay Attention to Mental Health
Maintain an open-minded and optimistic attitude, learn self-regulation, and learn to detach from stressful situations.
9. Drink Plenty of Water and Maintain Regular Bowel Movements
Develop the habit of drinking more water, especially before bedtime and in the morning. Drinking 1-2 cups of warm water is beneficial for health. Additionally, ensure regular bowel movements. Constipation increases abdominal pressure, leading to increased blood pressure, while straining during bowel movements can trigger a stroke.
10. Pay Attention to Warning Signs
About 70% of stroke patients have warning signs before the stroke. These signs include sudden severe headaches, dizziness, sudden weakness or numbness in the limbs, slurred speech, sudden confusion or fainting, sudden mood changes, frequent yawning or drowsiness, frequent vomiting, and regurgitation. Individuals with these symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
Prevention is key for stroke. Patients with hypertension and coronary heart disease should monitor changes in their condition to prevent recurrence. Hypertensive patients should also avoid sudden temperature changes, as they can lead to increased blood pressure and severe consequences.
