October 29 is World Stroke Day, a time to spotlight the deadly condition, warning signs and how to prevent it.
AliveCor, the creator of Kardia Mobile, a smartphone device that lets people like you and me get a full-picture of our heart health in under 30 seconds with the touch of a fingertip. Kardia instantly detects abnormal heart rhythms, a leading cause of stroke.
The AliveCor team has also put together some stroke prevention tips:
- Keep your Blood Pressure in check: A healthy diet low in sodium and cholesterol and high in fruit and veggies is crucial for this. An ideal reading is 120/80.
- Stay in shape: Obesity and related complications can increase risk for stroke, and, in most cases, even losing a few pounds can improve your health. Aim for a BMI (body mass index of) 25 or lower.
- Exercise regularly: Aside from helping you lower blood pressure and lose weight, exercise on its own can reduce the risk of stroke. Try to get some moderately intense activity at least three times a week. Even casual cardio -- like morning walks or taking the stairs -- is beneficial.
- Avoid smoking: If you’re a smoker, try to cut down or completely quit to greatly reduce your risk of stroke. This habit thickens blood and builds artery plaque, and quitting is a powerful way to take back your health.
- Identify and treat AFib: Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an Abnormal Heart rhythm that greatly increases risk of stroke. Make an appointment at the doctor’s office to regularly get an EKG, or to save time and money, use an FDA-cleared smartphone device that reads your heart rhythm at home in seconds.
