Patients Medical, a leading integrative medical center in New York City, offers innovative stroke treatments such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), acupuncture, diet therapy and customized intravenous nutrition drips. Daniel Silverstein, MD, holistic physician, recommends focusing on prevention to avoid a stroke and to live a longer, healthier life.
Over 150,000 Americans under the age of 65 die from strokes and heart disease each year. Dr. Silverstein believes many of these deaths can be prevented. "The number one risk factor is high blood pressure," says Dr. Silverstein. "High blood pressure is known as the silent killer because there are no symptoms."
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or bursts, causing a disruption of the blood supply. This medical emergency is the leading cause of adult disability in the United States, and may soon become the leading cause of death worldwide. "A common misconception is that only seniors get strokes," adds Dr. Silverstein, "but young adults can also have strokes."
To decrease the chances of stroke, Dr. Silverstein suggests getting regular check-ups with a medical doctor, quitting smoking, eating a nutritious diet, as well as getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day. Dr. Silverstein recommends, "A diet that focuses on whole foods, limiting the amount of meat and other animal products will help naturally lower inflammation. Less inflammation means a decreased chance of high blood pressure, diabetes, and high LDL cholesterol. These factors may indicate a problem with the flow of blood through your vessels, which can result in a heart attack or a stroke."