Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu, Consultant from the Department of Neurology at National Neuroscience Institute (NNI), answers your questions on stroke – about prevention, treatment and recovery.
Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death in Singapore.
1 in 4 people are likely to suffer a stroke in their lifetime, and the number of stroke cases are rising with our ageing population.
To reduce your risk of stroke, you need to be stroke S.M.A.R.T. This means to:
S: Live a
Smoke-free life
M: Choose healthy
Meals
A: Keep yourself
Active
R: Go for
Regular health screening
T: Take your medications as instructed by your doctor
Being stroke S.M.A.R.T is particularly important if you have already had a stroke because you are at higher risk of having another one!
For more tips on how to lower stroke risk, read this article.
Equally important as knowing how to prevent stroke is being able to spot one, because early emergency treatment can increase the chances of a good recovery.
When it comes to spotting the signs of stroke, remember to
Think F.A.S.T:
Face drooping,
Arm weakness,
Speech difficulties
Time to call 995!
For more on how to spot a stroke, read this article.
Have questions on stroke prevention, stroke treatment or stroke recovery? Ask our specialist in this Q&A!
About Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu is Consultant, Department of Neurology at the National Neuroscience Institute (NNI).
Dr Sumit focuses on the management of stroke patients and conducts research to improve stroke care and recovery.
An interventional neurologist, Dr Sumit uses minimally invasive techniques to remove blockages from blood vessels and restore blood flow to the brain.
Dr Sumit is also a keen educator and is involved in teaching trainee neurologists, junior doctors and medical students.
Questions and answers on stroke
1. Question by Lok
Hi Doctor,
I have few questions on stroke preventive measures below and appreciate your replies.
a) Are there specific health checks or tests that can help predict the risk of a stroke?
b) What factors do you consider when assessing my risk for stroke?
c) Are there any screening tests, such as imaging or blood tests, that you recommend?
d) How often should I have these assessments done based on my personal health history?
e) What lifestyle changes can I make to reduce my stroke risk?
Thanks and best regards.
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Lok,
Here are the answers to your questions:
a) Health checks and tests: Common tests to help predict stroke risk include:
Blood pressure measurement
Cholesterol tests (lipid profile)
Blood sugar tests (to check for diabetes)
More advanced test/investigations that may be prescribed by a specialist to determine stroke risk are
- ECG or echocardiogram (to assess heart health)
- Carotid ultrasound (to evaluate blood flow in the carotid arteries)
b) Factors for stroke risk assessment:
We can group all the stroke risk factors into ‘non-modifiable’ and ‘modifiable’.
Non-modifiable risk factors are those that we are unable to control. For example:
Age - Increasing age has greater risk of having a stroke.
Gender – Males are usually at greater risk than females.
Personal or family history of stroke - Those who have had a stroke or a family history of stroke are at greater risk than those who do not.
But there are more modifiable risk factors that we can control including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, High LDL cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, smoking, obesity, low physical activity, heavy alcohol intake, psychosocial stress, and depression.
c) Recommended screening tests: In addition to the standard health checks mentioned:
d) Assessment frequency: The frequency of these assessments can depend on your personal health history:
If you have risk factors, annual checks may be advised.
For those with existing conditions such as hypertension or diabetes, more frequent monitoring (every 3 to 6 months) may be necessary.
It's best to consult your healthcare provider for a personalized schedule.
e) Lifestyle changes: To reduce stroke risk, consider these changes:
Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Engage in regular physical activity (aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week).
Maintain a healthy weight.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Manage stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness.
Control blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes with medication and lifestyle modifications as needed.
As part of the National Stroke Campaign, an initiative by the Ministry of Health’s Stroke Services Improvement (SSI) team, the S.M.A.R.T approach is designed to raise awareness about stroke prevention this year.
This approach serves as a guide for everyone, from individuals who have never experienced a stroke to stroke survivors. It encourages all people, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity, to adopt lifestyle habits that reduce the risk of stroke.
The S.M.A.R.T acronym stands for:
If you have more specific health concerns or conditions, I will suggest to discuss them with a healthcare professional for tailored advice.
2. Question by Clarice
Dear Doctor,
I have seen on various websites that the acronym has been updated to BEFAST. But in Singapore it’s still FAST. Can you clarify this and thanks.
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Clarice,
The acronym BEFAST is an updated version of the older FAST acronym used to recognize the symptoms of a stroke. However, the adoption of BEFAST varies by region, and it appears that Singapore is still using the traditional FAST acronym in public education efforts.
Here’s a comparison between the two acronyms:
FAST (widely used, including in Singapore)
F – Face drooping: Is one side of the face numb or drooping?
A – Arm weakness: Is one arm weak or numb?
S – Speech difficulty: Is speech slurred or hard to understand?
T – Time to call emergency services(995): Stroke is an emergency; call 995 for help immediately.
BEFAST (adopted in some countries, especially in the U.S.)
B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
E – Eyes: Sudden vision changes or loss in one or both eyes.
FAST – Same as above (Face, Arm, Speech, Time).
BEFAST was introduced to help identify additional signs—balance and vision issues—that are common with strokes affecting areas like the posterior circulation of the brain.
However, many healthcare authorities (including in Singapore) may still rely on FAST for simplicity and familiarity, as it’s easier to remember and widely recognised.
If Singapore’s medical community eventually shifts towards BEFAST, it would likely align with ongoing global trends to improve stroke recognition.
For now, the FAST acronym continues to serve well in public awareness efforts.
3. Question by Piyush
Hi Dr Sumit,
My father (aged 70) had a brain stroke last year in Oct, that initially paralysed his left side of the body.
There has been much recovery, but below two issues still persist:
a) he has difficulty in passing urine, so has been on catheter post that (via pipe)
b) his left hand does not have the full grip and there is still some pain there.
His BP, sugar, cholesterol is in control now, but prostate is enlarged.
Wanted to check when can he recover from both the difficulties? Do tell me if you need any further details.
Thank you for your advice.
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Piyush,
It’s good to hear your father has made progress. Regarding the two concerns:
1.Urinary issues: Stroke can affect bladder function, and the enlarged prostate may worsen this. Recovery varies, but improvements often occur within the first year. A urologist might consider alternatives to long-term catheter use, such as intermittent catheterization or medications for the prostate.
A urologist can assess whether the urinary issue is primarily stroke-related or driven more by the prostate and adjust the care accordingly.
2.Left hand weakness and pain: After a stroke, spasticity, weakness, and pain in the affected limbs are common, especially in the upper body. Since his hand is still weak and painful, it suggests that motor recovery is still ongoing but incomplete.
Recovery of hand function can take longer, sometimes up to 12-18 months or more. Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and pain management (if needed) can help improve grip and reduce discomfort.
A neurologist or rehabilitation specialist can assess if more advanced therapies (like electrical stimulation or robotic-assisted rehab) could accelerate recovery.
Further improvements are still possible. However, some degree of impairment may persist. Close follow-ups with both a urologist and a rehabilitation specialist are essential to monitor his progress and adjust treatments as needed.
4. Question by Zi Yang
Hi Dr,
What is my stroke risk for the next 5 to 10 years if I have high blood pressure?
a) BMI is normal, no cholesterol and diabetes
b) Have visited a cardiology doctor
c) Am on medication such as diovan 80mg and amlodipine 5mg
d) Cardiologist claims this is a gene issue
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Saw,
Your stroke risk over the next 5 to 10 years will depend on multiple factors, including how well your blood pressure is controlled with medication.
High blood pressure (hypertension) is a major risk factor for both ischemic (clot-related) and hemorrhagic (bleeding-related) strokes. The medications you are on are effective in lowering blood pressure, which can significantly reduce stroke risk.
A family or genetic predisposition can increase the risk of hypertension and, by extension, stroke. Even with genetic hypertension, keeping your blood pressure under control will greatly reduce your stroke risk. Studies suggest that well-controlled hypertension can lower stroke risk by 30-40%.
Normal BMI: A healthy weight helps minimize additional strain on your cardiovascular system.
No diabetes or high cholesterol: These are significant risk factors for stroke, so your absence of them is protective.
While precise individual risk is hard to calculate without specific values (like BP readings or a stroke risk calculator such as the Framingham tool), with controlled blood pressure and no diabetes or high cholesterol, your stroke risk will likely remain low to moderate over the next 5-10 years.
My advice will be:
Keep monitoring your blood pressure regularly. Ideal control is generally below 130/80 mmHg.
Continue follow-ups with your cardiologist to ensure your treatment is effective.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle—exercise, balanced diet, and stress management—to further lower your risk.
5. Question by Richard
Dear Dr Sumit,
I suffered a stroke on my left side in Dec 2023.
I am recovering and able to walk with the support of a walking stick. I did CTI & MRI scan which came back negative on my lower back. However, as of today I feel that my calf muscle is very tight and hamstring is just as painful. Currently, I am still having physical therapy thrice a week.
The issue here is why I am still having tight calf and hamstring till today? Is there a way to alleviate the pain and ease the tightness of the muscle. Prescribed medication from hospital doesn't seem to improve my condition.
Looking forward to your advice. Thank you.
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Richard,
I’m sorry to hear about your stroke and the ongoing challenges with muscle tightness and pain. It’s great to know that you’re making progress with physical therapy and walking with a stick.
It’s common to experience calf and hamstring tightness after a stroke due to spasticity, nerve dysfunction, muscle imbalance, or gait changes. Here are some ways to ease the pain:
Stretching: Daily stretches for the hamstring and calf. Work with your physical therapist to develop a stretching routine targeting the calf and hamstring.
Heat therapy: Use a heating pad before stretching to loosen muscles.
Massage and hydrotherapy: Relieves tension and improves flexibility.
Orthotics: Braces or insoles to correct gait.
Medication review: Ask your doctor about spasticity treatments (e.g., Botox, muscle relaxants).
Stay consistent with physical therapy and consider electrical stimulation or a gait assessment if symptoms persist.
6. Question by Vincent
Dear Dr Sumit, good afternoon.
I have TIA 2-3 times in the past 20 years.
My medicines now include Aspirin. I read from some articles that Clopidogrel(Plavix) is more effective for preventing stroke. What would you suggest?
Thank you and best wishes.
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Vincent,
I’m sorry to hear about your past TIAs. It’s good that you’re being proactive about preventing future strokes. Both Aspirin and Clopidogrel (Plavix) are antiplatelet medications that reduce the risk of stroke by preventing blood clots, but the choice between them depends on individual factors. Here’s a summary to help you better understand your options:
Aspirin:
Often the first-line therapy for stroke or TIA prevention. Typically prescribed if the patient has no contraindications like a history of bleeding disorders or gastric ulcers.
Clopidogrel (Plavix):
- Shown to be slightly more effective than aspirin for some patients, particularly those with a history of stroke, TIA, or peripheral artery disease (CAPRIE trial).
- Often used if the patient has aspirin intolerance or allergy.
- May be considered for individuals with recurrent TIAs or those with a higher risk of stroke.
Since you’ve had multiple TIAs over a span of 20 years, your doctor might consider switching you to Clopidogrel, especially if: You’ve had a TIA despite taking aspirin.
My advice is consult your doctor who will assess your medical history, current health, and stroke risk factors to determine whether switching to Clopidogrel is appropriate.
Ultimately, it’s important to personalise the treatment based on your specific circumstances.
7. Question by Kelly
Dear Dr Sumit,
I have recently been told by a doctor that I had a silent stroke due to a white patch shown in the MRI of my brain. I am very puzzled as I do not have any significant sign of stroke that I can remember.
Moreover, I don't have high blood pressure. My blood pressure measured in Sep 2024 was 93/56 and my MBI is 23.3. I have slightly high cholesterol but it was normal after taking the Cholesterol medicine on alternate days as instructed by the polyclinic doctor.
I have read your article that stroke patients are usually with high blood pressure. May I know what caused the silent stroke as I have low-normal blood pressure?
Hope you can enlighten me with my query. Thank you.
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Kelly,
Silent strokes can occur without obvious symptoms, and their causes may not always align with the typical risk factors associated with strokes, such as high blood pressure.
Here are some potential reasons for a silent stroke, even with low-normal blood pressure:
Microangiopathy: Damage to small blood vessels can lead to reduced blood flow or small clots.
Cholesterol plaque: Elevated cholesterol can cause blockages, potentially leading to silent strokes.
Atrial fibrillation: Irregular heart rhythms may result in clots that travel to the brain.
Other conditions: Diabetes or certain blood disorders can increase stroke risk.
Age and genetics: Older age and family history can also contribute to risk.
Silent strokes can be serious, so it’s essential to have ongoing monitoring and management of any risk factors, even if they don’t seem significant.
It’s important to discuss your situation with your doctor to understand your specific risk factors and potential next steps. Maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing cholesterol can help reduce risk.
8. Question by Kwan
Hi Dr,
I am 75 years old, I take blood pressure reading few times a week, each time three readings, 3 minutes apart.
The first reading is always high (145 or higher) and 2nd and 3rd reading drop to around 135. How to interpret this? What is my risk of getting a stroke? Thank you.
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Kwan,
It’s common for blood pressure readings to fluctuate, especially when measured multiple times in a row. Here’s how to interpret your readings:
The first reading being higher (145 or more) could be due to “white coat syndrome,” anxiety during the measurement, or the body’s natural response to standing or moving.
The drop in the second and third readings (around 135) suggests your blood pressure stabilizes after a brief period of rest.
Interpreting your readings: A reading of 130-139 systolic (top number) indicates stage 1 hypertension, while 145 is classified as stage 2 hypertension. You might consider using the average of the last two readings for a more accurate representation of your typical blood pressure.
Stroke risk consideration: At 75, your risk for stroke increases, regardless of blood pressure readings. Consistently high BP readings, especially if over 140 systolic, can increase stroke risk, even if they fluctuate.
I suggest discuss your readings with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further monitoring or medication adjustments. Consider lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise) to help manage blood pressure.
Monitoring your blood pressure regularly and understanding its patterns is crucial for reducing stroke risk.
9. Question by Teo
Hi Dr,
I'm diagnosed with hypothyroid. Will my condition lead to stroke?
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Teo,
Hypothyroidism can be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular issues, including stroke, but the relationship is complex.
Hypothyroidism often leads to higher levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, which can contribute to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and increase stroke risk.
Some studies suggest that untreated hypothyroidism may be linked to higher blood pressure, another risk factor for stroke.
Severe hypothyroidism can affect heart function and increase the risk of heart disease, which may indirectly raise stroke risk.
It’s important to regularly monitor and manage your thyroid levels with medication, as this can help mitigate associated risks. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, and managing cholesterol and blood pressure can also help reduce your risk.
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding your condition and stroke risk.
10. Question by Murugesan
Hi Dr,
Which causes a higher risk of getting stroke – high cholesterol or uncontrolled diabetes? Thank you.
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Murugesan,
Both high cholesterol and uncontrolled diabetes significantly increase the risk of stroke, but they do so through different mechanisms.
High cholesterol leads to the formation of plaques in arteries (atherosclerosis), narrowing them and potentially causing blockages.
Uncontrolled diabetes significantly raises the risk of both ischemic and haemorrhagic strokes.
Poorly controlled diabetes poses a greater overall risk for stroke due to its multiple effects on vascular health and its tendency to worsen other risk factors (like cholesterol and blood pressure). It also promotes inflammation and thickens blood, increasing clot formation risk.
Managing both conditions is crucial for stroke prevention, so consult your healthcare provider for personalised guidance.
11. Question by Boon
Dear Dr,
I am a 54-year-old Male and I have a family history of high cholesterol. My own cholesterol is historically 3 to 4 times the recommended levels and I have been aware of this since my early twenties. However, due to foolishness, I had chosen to ignore it and failed to get on Statins until I turned 50.
I am not a smoker and do not drink alcohol. Blood pressure is normal and I am not very overweight (72KG, 170 cm tall). I am also taking steps to improve my physical exercise and avoiding excessive stress.
Since I have ignored the cholesterol problem for such a long time, will the accumulation of plaques etc have reached a critical level?
Is there a way to ascertain for sure the condition of my blood vessels, including and especially those in the brain are still in good? I hear about doing calcium scores, or other more invasive injected-dye based imaging? How do I get these investigations done, if advisable? I would like to know whether all the years of my ignoring the problem have caused too much damage, necessitating more aggressive actions to mitigate the earlier neglect.
I also wanted to find out if high-intensity / high-dose Statins can help mitigate or improve any build up in the blood vessels, especially with regards to those in the brain.
I look forward to your advice so that I can have a more productive discussion with my doctor and begin taking positive steps towards preventing stroke.
Thank you.
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Boon,
Given your history of untreated high cholesterol and your proactive approach now, let’s break down the key aspects to guide your next steps.
a) Assessing the extent of plaque build-up
It is difficult to predict the extent of plaque accumulation without diagnostic tests, but there are a few methods to assess your cardiovascular health:
Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Score:
This non-invasive CT scan measures calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. It does not cover the brain directly but is a good proxy for cardiovascular risk.
Carotid Ultrasound:
This test checks for plaque buildup or narrowing in the carotid arteries, which supply the brain. It can help assess stroke risk.
CT Angiography (CTA) or MR Angiography (MRA):
These imaging studies (sometimes using contrast dye) visualize blood vessels in the brain and other areas, identifying blockages or aneurysms.
Invasive Angiography:
This is rarely necessary unless non-invasive tests suggest severe disease. It involves injecting dye into the arteries and taking X-rays, offering the most detailed view of blockages.
Discuss these options with your doctor. In Singapore, most major hospitals and cardiology centres offer CAC scoring and carotid ultrasounds.
b) Role of statins and reversal of plaque build-up
High-intensity Statins (e.g., Atorvastatin 40-80 mg, Rosuvastatin 20-40 mg):
These medications significantly reduce LDL cholesterol and slow plaque progression. Some studies suggest that they can stabilize or even slightly reduce existing plaques. However, complete reversal of advanced plaques is uncommon.
If LDL targets are not reached with Statins alone, your doctor might consider adding other lipid lowering medications (Fibrates, Ezetimibe or PCSK9 Inhibitors) to further lower cholesterol levels.
c) Brain health and stroke prevention
Plaques in arteries supplying the brain can lead to strokes. Aggressive LDL reduction through Statins lowers this risk. Additionally, maintaining normal blood pressure, healthy diet, stopping smoking and engaging in regular aerobic exercise (such as brisk walking or swimming) will support brain health.
d) Next steps with your doctor
It’s important to discuss your situation with your doctor to understand your specific risk factors and potential next steps evaluate your cardiovascular status and explore other preventive strategies.
While it’s natural to be concerned about the years of untreated high cholesterol, the fact that you’re acting now is critical. With the right investigations and therapy, you can greatly reduce future risks and maintain long-term health.
12. Question by Susan
Dear Dr Sumit,
I am writing to share my concerns and suggest an enhancement to the current FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) stroke assessment guidelines, based on my late husband's experience. While the existing FAST guidelines are widely promoted, they did not capture my husband's strokes in October 2022.
My husband showed no signs of facial drooping, arm weakness (actually did but was not recognised by A&E, the ward on admission or SCDF paramedics), or speech difficulties (actually could not sustain a conversation that well).
Due to the lack of classic symptoms, paramedics and A&E staff did not treat his case with the urgency required, resulting in over 24 hours of waiting before he was tested for stroke (days in fact). By then, the damage had worsened with two additional strokes (5 in all - 3 from 2019). I never witnessed any palpable urgency in treatment.
I strongly believe that a reformulation of the FAST guidelines is necessary to prevent other patients from enduring similar experiences. Strokes can manifest in ways that are not covered by the current protocol or not recognised by numerous staff. Expanding the scope of initial assessments could save lives and might have saved my late husband's life.
I propose an enhanced version of FAST, which I have called "FAST-VAC" (Vision, Able, Confusion) to capture a broader range of stroke symptoms:
• F – Face: Look for drooping or weakness on one side of the face. Ask the person to smile. (never asked to smile as far as I know)
• A – Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Weakness in one arm could be a sign. (never examined as far as I know i.e. SCDF, A&E, ward on admission) (I think that this is something paramedics and nurses are able to do at least subject to confirmation once they raise the concern).
• S – Speech: Listen for slurred or unusual speech. Can they repeat a simple sentence? (difficult one for SCDF but he was not that coherent to me so it should have been a red flag for SCDF, A&E and ward on admission. Certainly I begged for him to be taken to hospital. At the hospital, I remember a long waiting time with my hubby in a wheelchair and not being attended to - it seemed to be interminable).
• T – Time: If any of the above symptoms are present, call emergency services immediately. (how could they not understand this one i.e. SCDF and once at A&E - all staff should be on the lookout for people who come within the elements of FAST-VAC).
To expand and catch more stroke cases, I suggest adding VAC.
• V – Vision: Has there been a sudden change in vision, such as blurred, double vision, or loss of vision in one or both eyes (Could paramedics and nurses be trained to do this - not done as far as I know at the moment)
• A – Able: Is the person able to perform basic motor functions, such as walking, balancing, or moving limbs? Are they showing signs of sudden weakness or loss of coordination? (suddenly he could not walk - and had weakness - I just don't understand how no one did not think of stroke at SCDF and A&E and ward level)
• C – Confusion: Is the person suddenly confused, disoriented, or having trouble understanding? Are they experiencing memory lapses or trouble communicating, even without slurred speech? (I think it was but the paramedics and A&E could not recognise this in my husband's case and nor could the ward until days later. What concerns me with SCDF and A&E and even the ward on admission - no one asked me any questions - surely they should ask the caregiver questions, shouldn't they?)
These additional categories (Vision, Able, Confusion) are critical because some stroke patients have these symptoms but may not show the classic signs in the FAST protocol.
I hope you will consider reviewing and expanding the FAST guidelines to improve stroke care. Lives may depend on these updates, and I believe incorporating these broader assessments could reduce or prevent future cases like my husband's. Thank you.
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Susan,
Thank you, for sharing your late husband’s story with such thoughtfulness and courage. I am truly sorry for your loss and the challenges you faced during his care. It is concerning that his symptoms were not recognised in time, and I appreciate your insights on the limitations of the current FAST guidelines.
Your FAST-VAC (Vision, Able, Confusion) proposal thoughtfully highlights gaps in stroke assessments, especially for atypical presentations. Including changes in vision, motor function, and cognitive signs could improve evaluations. Your point about actively involving caregivers is also critical in emergency care.
I will review your proposal and share it with colleagues involved in stroke care and emergency response. While any changes to protocols require thorough review, your experience underscores the need for continuous improvement in patient care.
Once again, my deepest condolences, and thank you for advocating for a better system. Your insights could make a real difference, and I welcome any further input you may have.
13. Question by Mahesh
Hi Dr Sumit,
I have two questions about stroke:
a) How to recover from TIA?
b) What foods can I take to recover from my slurred speech?
Thank you.
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Mahesh,
Here are some quick tips for your questions:
a) How to recover from a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
A TIA, often called a “mini-stroke,” is a warning sign of a future stroke. Recovery from a TIA involves addressing both immediate symptoms and long-term prevention strategies. Here’s what you can do:
Medical follow-up and risk management
- Take your medications regularly like ;Antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin or clopidogrel) to prevent clots.
- Statins to reduce cholesterol, which is especially relevant in your case.
- Antihypertensives if blood pressure is high.
Monitoring
Regular cholesterol checks and blood pressure monitoring.
If arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation) are suspected, your doctor may recommend an ECG or Holter monitor.
Lifestyle adjustments
Exercise regularly (moderate-intensity aerobic activities like brisk walking or swimming).
Manage stress, as it can increase your stroke risk.
Work with your doctor to manage underlying issues, including cholesterol.
b) Rehabilitation for mild symptoms
If a TIA affected speech, coordination, or cognition, mild rehabilitation therapies may help:
- Speech Therapy: Even if the effects are mild, speech therapists can assist in improving fluency and articulation.
- Occupational Therapy: If fine motor skills are affected, this therapy helps restore daily functioning.
- Cognitive Training: Apps and brain games help sharpen memory and focus.
c) What foods can help recover from slurred speech?
While specific foods alone won’t restore speech, maintaining a brain-healthy diet can promote recovery and prevent further strokes. Focus on anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective foods to support brain function.
Stay hydrated to maintain cognitive clarity and brain function.
Highly processed foods (like fried snacks or sugary beverages) can increase inflammation and impair brain recovery. Excess salt can elevate blood pressure, increasing stroke risk.
By combining rehabilitation therapies with nutritious foods, you can boost your recovery while reducing the risk of future strokes. Consult a speech therapist and dietician for specific exercises and dietary recommendations that may aid your recovery.
14. Question by Vijaya
Dear Doctor,
Doctors always recommend we go for regular health screening. Can you please specify:
a) What is regular - the time frame?
b) What do we need to check for in regular health screening? Please specify the actual tests that should be done.
Thank you for your advice.
Answer by Dr Sumit Kumar Sonu
Dear Vijaya,
Thank you for your inquiry about regular health screenings. Here’s some detailed information:
a) What is regular – the time frame
Generally, adults are advised to undergo health screenings annually. However, the specific timing can vary based on factors such as age, personal health history, and risk factors. For example:
Young Adults (18-39): Screenings may be less frequent but should include a basic health assessment every 1-2 years.
Adults (40-64): Annual screenings are typically recommended, particularly for those with risk factors.
Seniors (65 and older): Annual screenings are crucial, along with more frequent monitoring of specific conditions.
b) What to check for in regular health screening
Here are the key tests that are often included in routine screenings:
Blood Pressure Measurement: To monitor hypertension.
Cholesterol Levels (Lipid Panel): To assess cardiovascular risk.
Blood Glucose Test: To screen for diabetes or prediabetes.
Body Mass Index (BMI) Assessment: To evaluate weight-related health risks.
Cancer Screenings:
- Mammograms for women (starting at age 40 years)
- Pap smears for cervical cancer (every 3 years starting at age 25).
- Prostate exams for men (discuss with a doctor starting around age 50).
- Colon cancer screenings (beginning at age 50).
Vision and Hearing Tests: Recommended regularly, especially for older adults.
Vaccination Updates: Ensure that all vaccinations are current based on age and health guidelines.
It's always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations based on your health status and family history.
Ref: H24