Jamie and his uncle George are having a drink at the bar. What advice would you give them to reduce their risk of stroke?
Jamie’s story
Hi. I’m Jamie. I’m in my first year at University studying medicine. I’m really enjoying student life – drinking with friends and ‘partying’ at the weekend. The food was great today; I usually live on noodles and ready meals.
George’s story
Hello, I’m George. I’ve had my 60th birthday. It was a bit difficult as I lost my wife last year. I’m lost without her, my cooking is not so good. And I can feel these trousers are getting a bit tight. My doctor thinks I should lose some weight. I have been seeing him recently with a bit of heart trouble. I think he calls it atrial fibrillation.
Jamie should stop binge drinking, maintain safe drinking limits. As a healthcare worker, you’ll want to remind some of your patients that any use of recreational drugs can significantly increase the risk of a stroke. Reduce the amount of fast foods he is eating, to reduce the salt in his diet. Reducing high salt intake may help to lower his blood pressure.
Uncle George should continue taking his medication and go for regular warfarin checks which he has been prescribed for his atrial fibrillation. Join a local cookery class. Increase his regular exercise levels. Aim for at least 150 minutes (2 ½ hours) of moderate physical activity a week. This could be 30 minutes on 5 or more days, or a few sessions each day of 10 minutes at a time.
CHSS Reducing the risk: Essential Guide
Page last reviewed: 12 Mar 2021
