What is a Stroke?
An ischemic stroke (the most common type) happens when a blood vessel that feeds the brain gets clocked, usually from a blood clot. When the blood supply to a part of the brain is shut off, brain cells will die. The result is the inability to carry out normal brain functions such as walking or talking.
- About 85 percent of strokes are ischemic strokes
How is a stroke related to your mouth?
Research indicates a relationship exists between stroke and periodontal disease. A casual study that examined oral infections as potential stroke risk factors found an increased likelihood of oral infections among individuals who had acute cerebrovascular ischemia, as compared to the study’s control group.
How can you minimize your risk of having a stroke?
- Control high blood pressure (hypertension).
- Lower the amount of cholesterol and saturated fat in your diet.
- Follow good oral-health maintenance practices that promote healthy gums and teeth.
- Quit tobacco use.
- Control diabetes.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat a diet rich in fruit and vegetables.
- Exercise regularly.
- Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all.
- Treat obstructive sleep apnea, if present.
- Avoid illicit drugs.
