Heart-to-Heart Cardiovascular disease and its connection to stroke

Cardiovascular disease significantly raises the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes, according to Dr. Grant Sorkin, a medical director at WellSpan. He emphasizes that plaque build-up can restrict blood flow to the brain, leading to critical stroke symptoms like speech difficulties and weakness on one side of the body. Maintaining an active lifestyle and managing blood pressure are essential strategies for minimizing these risks. Since 2015, advancements in stroke treatment, particularly thrombectomy, have greatly improved prognosis outcomes for patients.

This procedure enables surgeons to physically remove blood clots from the brain, which is essential for effective treatment. Dr. Sorkin advises recognizing stroke symptoms using the B-E-F-A-S-T acronym to ensure timely medical intervention. The heart and brain's interconnectedness highlights the importance of cardiovascular health. Understanding these risks and treatments can empower individuals to take proactive steps towards better health.