Cass Regional Medical Center | Wellness Matters | Fall 2018

4 cassregional.org | 816-380-3474 | Fall 2018 Be smart What you can do to control three major risk factors In the next 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. will have a stroke. But chances are that stroke—which might be deadly or cause a severe and last- ing disability—didn’t have to happen. That’s because strokes are largely preventable with lifestyle changes and other safeguards that decrease your stroke risk. It’s true that you can’t control every risk factor that heightens the chance of a stroke, such as a family history of stroke or simply growing older. But here are three major risk factors you can control, along with proven ways to do so. ATHEROSCLEROSIS. This buildup of plaque in your arteries—especially the carotid arteries in your neck—can bring on a stroke. Take charge: Some of the same steps that keep blood pressure in a healthy range can also help keep plaque from clogging your arteries. Among them: sticking to a well-balanced, reduced-sodium diet; maintaining a healthy weight; and being more physically active. Do you smoke? Then talk to your doctor about products and programs that can help you quit. Lighting up damages your blood vessels and raises your atherosclerosis risk. Unhealthy cholesterol levels can cause atherosclerosis. So if your levels aren’t good, your doctor may prescribe medication to control or lower your cholesterol. Be sure to follow your doctor’s orders for taking the medication. st roke 1 ? ! HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE IS THE LEADING cause of strokes. When was the last time yours was checked? We offer free blood pressure screenings. Call 816-619-3000 to learn more.