Regular Exercise: A Powerful Tool for Stroke Prevention and Recovery

Stroke, a significant cause of death and disability worldwide, can be prevented by addressing key risk factors, including physical inactivity. A neurologist at RSUD Pasar Minggu, Dr. Marijanty Learny Vera T, highlights the importance of regular exercise in lowering the risk of stroke recurrence for survivors. She emphasizes that a million stroke cases annually are linked to insufficient physical activity, and engaging in the recommended amount of exercise each week can significantly reduce this risk.

Regular Exercise and Stroke Prevention

Dr. Marijanty advises that even just 30 minutes of exercise five times a week can reduce stroke risk by 25%. Simple daily activities like walking instead of driving, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, gardening, and doing housework contribute to overall health and reduce stroke risk. She recommends aiming for at least 2.5 hours of moderate to vigorous exercise every week, which can be broken down into 30-minute sessions five days a week.

Finding Time for Exercise

For those struggling to find time for a full 30-minute workout, Dr. Marijanty suggests dividing the exercise into 10-minute blocks throughout the day and gradually increasing the duration over time.

Benefits of Exercise for Stroke Survivors

Even stroke survivors benefit greatly from regular exercise. It helps prevent dementia, aids in recovery, combats fatigue, and improves overall well-being. If your mobility is affected by stroke, a physical therapist or occupational therapist can help you find suitable exercises.

Understanding Stroke

It's crucial to understand that stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either by a blood clot or a ruptured artery. Recognizing the symptoms is crucial for timely intervention. These symptoms include weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision disturbances, dizziness, loss of balance, headache, numbness or tingling, and difficulty swallowing.

How much exercise is recommended to reduce stroke risk?

Dr. Marijanty advises aiming for at least 2.5 hours of moderate to vigorous exercise every week, which can be broken down into 30-minute sessions five days a week.

What are some daily activities that can contribute to overall health and reduce stroke risk?

Simple daily activities like walking instead of driving, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, gardening, and doing housework contribute to overall health and reduce stroke risk.

What are some symptoms of stroke?

These symptoms include weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision disturbances, dizziness, loss of balance, headache, numbness or tingling, and difficulty swallowing.

Prevention is Key

Dr. Marijanty reminds us that one in four people is at risk of stroke in their lifetime. However, with simple preventative measures, most strokes can be avoided.