Ask an expert: Recognizing and preventing strokes

If we learn the signs of stroke, we can act fast to get help and increase the chance of recovery.

Know the signs of stroke

n Sudden inability to talk, understand words, or speak clearly

n Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body or face

n Sudden confusion, dizziness, or vision loss

n Sudden severe headache without another explanation

If any of these symptoms happen to you or a friend, call 911 right away. Acting fast can make it possible to treat stroke with medicine at the hospital.

There is so much we can all do to increase our chances of staying stroke-free.

Top tips for prevention of stroke

Know your blood pressure and have it checked at least once a year at a doctor’s office or pharmacy. If you have high blood pressure, work with your doctor to keep it in the normal range. For most people, that’s under 140/90.

Do you have a normal body weight? If you’re overweight, make a plan to get and stay on track. Remember, weight management is a marathon, not a sprint.

Know if you have atrial fibrillation, which is a special type of irregular heart beat that increases the risk of forming a clot in the heart that can cause strokes. If you have irregular heartbeats, tell your doctor. Make sure your doctor listens to your heart at least once a year. If you have atrial fibrillation, your doctor may prescribe medicine to help.

Don’t smoke. If you do, plan a day to quit this year. Your doctor can prescribe medicine to help you quit.

Have your cholesterol checked. If it is high, changing your diet may help or there are medications (statins) that reduce your risk for stroke.

Talk to your doctor about possibly taking a baby aspirin a day to decrease risk.

If you have diabetes, work with your medical team to get it under control.

Exercise is important. Build a habit of regular walking or other moderate physical activity at least three times a week.

Aim for five servings of fruit and vegetables a day, try to have fish about twice a week and don’t eat unless you’re hungry. Your Mom was right when she asked you to eat your veggies. Nutrition plays a big part in being healthy.

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Molly Olsen became a doctor to combine her passion for helping people with her interest in science. She enjoys internal medicine because it allows her to care for her patients throughout their lives.

Trained at OHSU in Portland and the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., Olsen is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and practices in the Providence Medical Group Hood River Internal Medicine Clinic.

She lives on a small farm in Hood River with her two children and husband, Steve, who also is a physician in Hood River. When not in clinic, you’ll find them spending time outdoors and taking advantage of recreation opportunities in the Columbia Gorge.