After her dad had a stroke 14 years ago, reporter Alice Sjoberg has repeatedly been told she is at a higher risk of having one too and has since implemented several lifestyle changes to prevent it
Just a week before my 13th birthday, my dad suffered a stroke. Initially, the medics at A&E were sceptical as he was a fit and healthy 40-year-old with no prior health issues. A stroke seemed out of the question, they thought.
But their doubts evaporated when he began to struggle with speech and couldn’t walk in a straight line. He was promptly admitted for treatment and further tests. In some ways, you could say he was one of the ‘fortunate’ ones. After a week-long hospital stay, he was discharged and embarked on a three-month home-based rehab journey, gradually recovering.
Fast forward nearly 14 years, and you’d be hard-pressed to guess what he’s been through. The only tell-tale sign is the array of pills he takes daily to keep another stroke at bay.
Despite strokes being fairly common, as around 100,000 people in the UK experience one each year, according to the Stroke Association, many are unaware that there can be a genetic component. Speaking to the Mirror, the CEO of the Stroke Association, Juliet Bouverie OBE, explained: “There is a common misconception that strokes only happen to older people, but they can affect anyone of any age. Around a quarter of strokes happen to people of working age, under the age of 65, which could be down to a myriad of factors.”
Since I was a teen, I’ve been advised by numerous doctors and healthcare professionals that I need to consider alternative treatments and lifestyle decisions due to my elevated risk of having a stroke, given my dad’s relatively young age at the time of his. As a result, I’ve made six lifestyle adjustments to try and stave off the possibility of enduring a stroke like my dad did. These are –
1. Prioritising my blood pressure health
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is the leading risk factor for stroke. It’s a condition that runs in my family, with both my parents and their parents having battled it. Because of this, this genetic predisposition doesn’t bode well for me.
My father suffered a stroke due to a blood clot, which could have been triggered by high blood pressure. Hypertension can damage your blood vessels, causing them to narrow and stiffen, and leading to a build-up of fatty material.
Juliet explained: “The Stroke Association is encouraging people to have their blood pressure regularly checked. This can be done at the GP, participating pharmacies or blood pressure monitors can be purchased online or from the high street for around £20.
“We also encourage people to attend the NHS Health Checks which are available for those over 40 in England and Wales and include a blood pressure check.”
To prevent hypertension, I regularly monitor my blood pressure through medical check-ups or using a home device. I also adhere to the NHS’ guidelines for preventing high blood pressure, which involve a balanced diet, regular exercise, and moderating alcohol intake.
2. Embracing a healthier lifestyle
While it may sound like a typical, even clichéd, approach to warding off illness or health issues, it genuinely does make a difference.
I’ve never been particularly sporty, despite my teenage attempts to find an enjoyable, active pastime. However, as I’ve matured, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of hitting the gym.
While weightlifting might seem dull, which I initially believed, I’ve learned to love it. Not only does it contribute to a healthy heart, crucial for stroke prevention, it also helps reduce blood pressure and slow down the process of artery clogging.
3. Prioritising breaks when necessary
A few months before my father suffered his stroke, he was given medical leave from work due to extreme stress. The NHS states excessive work pressure can lead to stress, impacting our happiness and quality of life, and leaving us feeling physically and mentally unwell.
After being urged to return to work prematurely, where he was immediately subjected to the same level of stress, he had the stroke.
As a result, I’ve always prioritised listening to my body and am not afraid to take a day off if I need it. Using stress management tools – like mindfulness or meditation – can also be beneficial.
4. Monitoring my migraines
The type of migraines I experience, which cause aura symptoms like blurred vision, dizziness, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound, have been linked to an increased risk of blood clots in previous studies.
Despite my best efforts, I’ve found no way to prevent my migraines. However, I do keep track of when they occur and pay extra attention if they start happening more frequently.
Talking about this, Juliet said migraines aren’t necessarily anything to panic about. She added: “There is limited evidence that says people who have migraines may be at an increased risk of stroke, but more research needs to be done on this. Anyone with concerns should speak to their GP. “
5. Steering clear of certain contraceptives
When I visited a gynaecologist with the intention of starting contraceptive pills to regulate my periods, I was surprised to be given some advice.
The doctor informed me I couldn’t use the combined pill or any other contraceptive method that uses both progestogen and oestrogen – due to their association with an increased risk of blood clots.
The NHS states that 1 in 1000 people on the combined pill experience blood clots as a result of taking it. While these odds are relatively small and don’t necessarily lead to a stroke, I’m still advised to avoid them given my already high risk due to my father’s history and my migraines.
6. Rocking compression socks
For years, my mum has been encouraging me to invest in compression socks for travel. They can also be useful when you’re standing for long periods.
Initially, I resisted. After all, what 20-something wants to wear compression socks out in public?
However, it is important. When you’re flying, your body’s blood circulation isn’t as efficient as usual. As a result, compression socks, which promote circulation and prevent blood from pooling in the legs, are often recommended to travellers of all ages as a preventative measure against blood clots.
Now, I’ve got a comfy pair tucked away in my sock drawer for my next flight.
If you think someone around you is having a stroke, Juliet recommends following the NHS FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) test.
This includes:
- Face – has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
- Arms – can they raise both arms and keep them there?
- Speech – is their speech slurred?
- Time – call 999
“Every second counts after a stroke hits, to minimise the brain damage caused and give the person the best chances of making a good recovery, both mentally and physically,” she said.
Or if you have any concerns about your health, you should book an appointment with a medical professional as soon as possible.