A hypertension: we all know it is bad for us, but no one really seems to know exactly what it does in our bodies and what the symptoms are. High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, as well as stroke (CVA). As physiotherapists, we still too often see patients who have suffered a stroke and need intensive rehabilitation. Therefore, we would like to inform you better about high blood pressure and how to prevent stroke by keeping your blood pressure healthy. We would also like to tell you a little more about our neurorehabilitation pathway.
What does high blood pressure do in your body?
High blood pressure is also known as hypertension and is more common after the age of 40. The problem with hypertension is that we do not always feel it or the symptoms are not recognised as such. Elevated blood pressure increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, which can then trigger a heart attack or stroke.
Symptoms of high blood pressure:
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Shortness of breath
- Restlessness
How can you prevent high blood pressure?
Although the exact cause of hypertension remains unknown for many people, we know that a number of factors influence the development of the condition. Heredity may play a role, but an unhealthy lifestyle is unfortunately one of the biggest causes. Do you want to prevent high blood pressure? Then observe the following lifestyle recommendations:
- Beware of unhealthy foods high in salt
- Try to maintain a healthy weight
- Get plenty of exercise
- Don't drink too much alcohol
- Quit smoking: check out the tips!
- Try to avoid prolonged stress
How does high blood pressure cause a stroke?
In stroke, we distinguish between a TIA, a cerebral infarction, and the less common cerebral haemorrhage. If your blood pressure remains elevated for a long time, a narrowing can occur in the small blood vessels in your brain. This makes it easier for a blood clot or clot to get stuck and (temporarily) block the flow of blood. This can result in a TIA or cerebral infarction.
A prolonged elevation in blood pressure can also cause small blood vessels in the brain to become damaged. This damage and weakening increases the chances of such a blood vessel bursting, or stroke. A stroke can often be recognised by a crooked, droopy mouth, limp arms or problems with speech. Do you see these symptoms in someone? If so, always call 112 immediately!
In this animation, the Heart Foundation clearly explains exactly what a stroke is and what happens in your brain:
Rehabilitation after stroke with physiotherapist
After the hospital has diagnosed and you have been treated, your rehabilitation process begins. Rehabilitation is important to regain as much control of your body functions as possible and remain self-reliant. The course takes an average of six months.
Depending on the type of stroke and the physical and mental consequences you experience, your rehabilitation programme will start. In case of severe symptoms, you will often first be treated at a specialised rehabilitation centre. Fortunately, in many cases you can simply rehabilitate at home under the supervision of a physiotherapist.
Together with you, our physiotherapist will draw up a personal treatment plan, with goals you will work on together. Treatments can take place at home or at the practice. For treatment at the practice, we take extra stimuli into account and schedule your appointment at a quiet time or in a quiet, low-pressure room. If necessary, we can also practise outside or at work so that you can get back to your daily life as quickly and effectively as possible.
Stroke is a complex condition and we generally treat it in a multidisciplinary way. This means that, where necessary, we cooperate and coordinate with your doctor, an occupational therapist, speech therapist, home care and, in some cases, even the dietician.
Would you like more information or to make an appointment?
Would you like to know more about high blood pressure and its effect on your body? Or would you like to discuss our rehabilitation programme and what we can do for you after a stroke? Then feel free to contact with us by calling 085-5000333 or emailing info@friskfysio.nl.
