Stroke is the 5th leading cause of death in the U.S., affecting about 795,000 Americans each year. The good news? Many strokes can be prevented with healthy habits. Experts from the Upstate Comprehensive Stroke Center recommend the “Lucky 7” approach: eat a heart-healthy diet, exercise regularly, drink alcohol in moderation, quit smoking, control blood pressure, manage diabetes, and follow your doctor’s advice for heart conditions like atrial fibrillation.
Know the warning signs—sudden numbness, confusion, trouble speaking, vision changes, loss of balance, or a severe headache—and call 911 right away if they appear. Fast treatment can save brain function…