This post was sponsored by the American Stroke Association. All opinions are my own.

I’ve heard so many people say “your health is your wealth” over the years.  If I were honest, and I am, I would say that I have not paid much attention to the phrase until a few years ago.  I’ve shared my first near stroke story before and have experienced a few scares since then.  

The first scare happened in 2015 and it was a resounding wake up call.  I did not even realize the effects of high blood pressure, or how stressed I was on my job.  After being rushed to the hospital with extremely high blood pressure and my left arm going numb, I quickly started paying more attention to my health.  I began talking to my aunts about high blood pressure and the heart conditions that ran in our family.   It was overwhelming initially.  

 

Strokes Don’t Discriminate

I realized then that strokes don’t discriminate.  They can happen to anyone, any race, any age, and at any time.  Statistically, one in every four people worldwide will have a stroke in their lifetime.  That’s why it’s important to know the most common warning signs.  They are:

• Drooping or facial numbness
• Arm weakness or numbness
• Slurred or distorted speech

 

When I experienced my first threat of a stroke, I did not know the warning signs, but I knew that my arm numbness was not normal.  It scared me so bad, I called 911 immediately.  I can still remember the panic on the face of the paramedic when he gave me oxygen in route to the hospital.  As soon as I arrived at the hospital, they admitted me.  I’m thankful that my near stroke experience was not damaging or fatal.  

 

Growing up I loved watching the television show, Beverly Hills 90210 .  Earlier this year, my favorite actor on the show, Luke Perry, died of a stroke.  To many it was hard to believe that someone so young and seemingly healthy could die of a stroke.  But I could relate.  I knew that you could have symptoms and not even know the seriousness of the illness.  

 

In honor of Luke, the cast of the news BH90210 is partnering with Omaze and the American Stroke Association to raise funds and promoting ways to improve their health and that of their fans.  They are asking for you to make a donation to the American Stroke Association and you’d be entered to win an opportunity for a trip to Los Angeles, meet the cast of BH90210, and have lunch with them in the real 90210.  Huge right?  I know, and I am asking you to support this initiative as well.

 

You see high blood pressure, heart disease, even strokes don’t discriminate.  Work towards a healthier you by adopting health habits that can protect and improve brain function and reduce the risk of a stroke.  Here are a few suggestions that are good to follow even if you don’t believe you are at risk of a stroke.

• Keep blood pressure in mind and under control. 
  • High blood pressure is the no. 1 controllable risk factor for stroke. Know your numbers and lower your risk. Work with your doctor to keep your blood pressure in a healthy range (under 120/80). This can also impact your whole-body health. 
• Eat all the colorful fruits and veggies. 
  • Eating lots of fruits and vegetables has been shown to lower blood pressure over time, which can help reduce your stroke risk. Some fruits and vegetables are especially rich in vitamins and minerals that improve brain function and heart health – try mangoes, avocados and blueberries. 
• Rest up. 
  • Getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night can improve brain function both today and long-term. Make it happen with a soothing bedtime routine and avoid screen time before bed. Sleep-related breathing issues may increase stroke risk, so seek treatment right away if you suspect sleep apnea or a similar problem. 
• Take a walk.  
  • Getting active activates brain cells, encouraging them to grow and connect more efficiently. Plus, getting active also reduces blood pressure, which reduces your stroke risk. 

Most strokes are largely treatable. Please pay attention to the warning signs and call 9-1-1 immediately if you experience any of the symptoms. Your immediate attention can make the difference between a strong recovery, disability or even death.  

 

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