Book an Appointment

Stroke is a very common and extremely serious issue, and can strike anyone at any time. Most strokes are preceded by signs and symptoms, and if you’re aware of what they are, you can seek treatment immediately, which can improve outcomes immensely. 

Learn the signs and symptoms of stroke and how acupuncture can help.

Signs and Symptoms of Stroke

A stroke is a stoppage of blood flow in the brain. It’s generally caused by arterial blockages, although a stroke can also be caused by a blood vessel bursting and bleeding in the brain. When someone suffers a stroke, they can have different symptoms or outcomes based on where in the brain the problem occurs. The symptoms of a stroke can be as short as five minutes or last as long as an hour. 

If you or a loved one experiences any of these signs or symptoms, call 911 and get to a hospital immediately:

  • Numbness or weakness in one side of the face, arm, or leg
  • Sudden mental confusion 
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Blurriness or dimness of vision, either in one or both eyes
  • Sudden extreme headache
  • Awkward pronunciation or difficulty speaking
  • Seeing double
  • Forgetfulness or dementia that appears out of nowhere

Who is at Risk of Stroke

While it generally happens to older people, young people can experience stroke as well. Your risk for stroke increases based on certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Women who are going through menopause and have frequent blood pressure changes are also at a higher risk for stroke. Although doctors don’t really understand why, those who suffer from migraines can experience stroke, too. 

Your family and personal history can help determine if you are at higher risk for stroke as well. Stroke occurs more often in certain ethnic groups, such as African American, Alaska Native, or American Indians. If your parents or grandparents suffered from stroke at some point, you are at higher risk. And if you’ve ever had a risk yourself in the past, you are at higher risk for another one. 

Personal habits can also increase your risk of stroke, including:

  • Smoking
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Lack of exercise
  • High stress levels
  • Frequent use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen

How Acupuncture Can Help Prevent or Treat Stroke

Stroke is a serious problem and should be treated immediately by emergency professionals. But acupuncture can help prevent stroke or help patients who have experienced a stroke to heal. 

One way that acupuncture can decrease your risk of stroke is by helping you manage your stress levels. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, which are risk factors for stroke. Acupuncture can also help you lose weight and manage your cholesterol levels through a healthier diet, which can reduce your risk. 

If you have experienced a stroke, acupuncture and herbal medicine can help you return to normal. Alongside other therapies like physical therapy, acupuncture can help reduce the effects of a stroke. 

If you or a loved one is at increased risk of stroke or has suffered a stroke and wants help getting healthy, make an appointment with 120 Acupuncture Clinic today.

120 Acupuncture Logo

Get Updates!

Get updates on traditional Eastern medicine, alternative therapies, and the latest news in acupuncture. 

You have Successfully Subscribed!