HealthSeptember 16, 2007 8:54 am

Brain attack Or Stroke as a medical emergency

Most strokes are caused by a blockage in an artery that carries blood to the brain. This can cause that part of the brain to be damaged, and you may lose control of a function that is controlled by that part of the brain. For example, you could lose the use of an arm or leg, or the ability to speak. The damage can be temporary or permanent, partial or complete. Doctors have found that if you get treatment right away after symptoms start, there is a better chance of getting the blood moving to your brain, and less chance of damage.

If you have any of the following symptoms, call for emergency help immediately. The sooner you get help, the more doctors can do to prevent further or permanent damage.
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HealthSeptember 4, 2007 1:29 pm

Natural Blood Pressure Control

Posted by Andrew Weil, M.D.
on Thu, Jul 26, 2007, 4:19 pm PDT
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is the most common form of cardiovascular disease in the United States, affecting nearly one in three adults.

High blood pressure is a threat because it makes the heart work harder, increasing its oxygen demands and contributing to angina (chest pain related to heart disease). Unchecked, high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attacks, stroke and kidney disease.

Some people can lower and control their blood pressure with healthy lifestyle measures - losing weight if necessary (even a 10 percent weight loss might do the trick), quitting smoking if that’s an issue, limiting intake of caffeine (in coffee, tea and sodas) and alcohol, all of which can contribute to the problem, as well as cutting back on salt (processed foods are the biggest sources of sodium in today’s Western diet) and practicing relaxation methods.

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