Stroke Awareness Month
The month of May has been named stroke awareness month. A stroke is caused when the blood flow to the brain is blocked and causes the brain to lose oxygen and cells. However, many strokes can be prevented and recovered from with the correct treatment. Dr. Rai of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of Long Island specializes in stroke rehabilitation and is dedicated to working with his patients to ensure a successful recovery.
Although strokes are a very serious medical condition, they can also be prevented. Here are a few preventative measures you can take:
- Keeping a healthy blood pressure level– According to the American Heart Association, a healthy blood pressure level is 120/80. Maintaining this level is a good way to prevent a stroke from happening.
- Don’t smoke– If you are a smoker you could be at a higher risk for a stroke because smoking thickens the blood, as well as causes plaque to build up within the arteries. Which in turn, can lead to a blockage.
- Exercise regularly– Exercise contributes to losing weight and lowering blood pressure, but it also stands on its own as an independent stroke reducer.
What to look out for:
- F.A.S.T.– Face drooping. Arm weakness. Speech difficulty. Time to call 911. If you start to see these three signs it’s crucial that you call 911 right away because the longer you wait, the more damage can be done.
If you have had a stroke and are nervous about the rehabilitation process here’s what you should expect. The process can be a difficult one depending on the severity of the stroke you experienced. But, the sooner that you start the rehab process the better your chances are of a successful recovery. Most times the rehab process will involve re-learning basic skills like walking, talking, and eating. Regaining muscle strength and re-establishing muscle memory is another huge part of the rehab process. Choosing the right doctor is also important for the success of the rehab process. Dr. Rai is a licensed physiatrist in Suffolk County who specializes in stroke rehabilitation and is more than experienced in helping patients throughout this difficult time.
Stroke awareness month is happening right now and its goal is to educate the public on all there is to know about strokes, including how to prevent strokes, what the warning signs of a stroke are, and the stroke rehabilitation process. If you are looking for a physiatrist in Suffolk County, our team at Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of Long Island is here to help you. If you’d like to learn more about our team or the stroke rehabilitation process, be sure to contact us today.
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