Dr. Jessica Eng, Medical Director of On Lok PACE, answers your questions
What is a stroke?
A stroke is a disruption of blood flow to the brain that can result in brain damage or disability. It can be caused by a blood clot or by bleeding in the brain.
What are the symptoms of stroke?
Weakness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech
Sudden vision problems
Sudden difficulty in walking or coordination
Sudden, severe headache.
Seeking immediate medical attention can decrease the amount of harm caused by a stroke. Call 911 even if symptoms come and go or stop.
What are the common after- effects of a stroke?
Common effects include slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, weakness and loss of sensation in half of the body.
How do you treat a stroke?
After a stroke, it is important to engage in physical and mental activity as soon as possible to decrease the risk of long-term disability. At On Lok PACE, we provide a wide range of services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, nursing care, medications, and meals.
If I have had a stroke, am I at higher risk for another one?
Yes. That is why it is so important to adopt a healthy lifestyle and to talk to your doctor about ways to decrease the risk of another stroke.
How can I prevent a stroke?
Eat a low-fat, plant-based diet.
Lose weight if needed.
Avoid heavy drinking and smoking.
Manage conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and obstructive sleep apnea. Snoring is the most common symptom of sleep apnea.
Source: Dr. Jessica Eng, Medical Director of On Lok PACE
