Stress is a natural part of modern life, but it can take a devastating toll on our health. Many of us recognise how stress impacts our mental and emotional well-being, yet the connection between chronic stress and physical health risks, especially strokes, is frequently overlooked.
Chronic stress can dramatically raise the risk of stroke, a leading cause of death and disability around the world. In South Africa, research from the Heart and Stroke Foundation reveals that every hour, 10 people suffer a stroke. However, the good news is that up to 80% of strokes can be prevented through healthy living and proper medical care.
We delve into the link between stress and strokes, shedding light on how prolonged stress affects our bodies and heightens stroke risk and share practical strategies for preventing and managing stress. We also emphasise the crucial role of stroke rehabilitation as part of the sub-acute rehabilitation services offered by Faircape Health, ensuring that patients receive the best support they need for optimal recovery.
Understanding the Link Between Stress and Strokes
What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to brain damage or death if not treated quickly. There are different types of strokes that affect the brain differently and that are treated completely differently too.
The two main types of strokes are ischemic strokes, which are caused by small blood clots forming in a blood vessel and then blocking an artery in the brain, and hemorrhagic strokes, which occur when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, and bleeds into the brain causing damage. Both types can result in long-term disability, affecting mobility, speech, and cognitive function.
Other less known types of strokes are Amaurosis Fugax, which is when a blood clot is lodged in the blood vessel at the back of the eye, causing vision loss and a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) or mini stroke. This is less severe than a full-blown stroke, lasting a maximum of 15 minutes and the person usually recovers within 24 hours.
How Stress Affects the Body
Chronic stress, whether from work pressure, financial strain, or personal issues, activates the body’s fight-or-flight syndrome, and this can lead to an increased heart rate, and the release of stress hormones like cortisol.
Over time, these physiological changes can have severe consequences. Prolonged stress contributes to high blood pressure, inflammation, and the buildup of fatty deposits in our arteries—factors that all increase the risk of ischemic strokes.
Additionally, stress can cause unhealthy coping mechanisms, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Overeating, consuming unhealthy foods and a lack of sleep can further escalate stroke risks.
A study published in The Lancet revealed that people experiencing high levels of stress have a 30% higher risk of stroke, emphasising the importance of addressing stress as a critical risk factor for strokes.
At Faircape Health, our rehabilitation team is trained to monitor stroke risk factors, including stress, and tailor recovery programmes to address these individual risks, ensuring that stress management is an integral part of the patient’s healing journey.
Tips to Prevent and Manage Stress
Managing stress to reduce stroke risk requires a proactive approach. Here are some actionable steps to take control of stress and promote overall well-being.
- Identify Your Stress Triggers
The first step to managing stress is recognising the source of it. Common stressors include work deadlines, family responsibilities, financial pressures, and health concerns. Once identified, you can work on ways to manage or minimise these stressors.
- Stress Management Techniques
While we may not be able to eliminate stress from our lives entirely, effectively managing it is crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Consider incorporating some or all of these practical tips into your daily routine to help you manage stress:
- Do a fun activity: Exercises like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can soothe your mind, reduce blood pressure and encourage better sleep.
- Get organised: Use to-do lists to prioritise essential tasks and set realistic goals to help alleviate the feeling of being overwhelmed.
- Practice saying ‘no’: When you’re feeling overwhelmed, learn to say set boundaries and not take on additional responsibilities.
- Smile and laugh more: Laughter is a natural stress reliever
- Healthy Lifestyle Habits
Taking care of your overall health is essential to managing stress. Regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, reduces stress hormones and improves cardiovascular health. Prioritising sleep, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and getting regular medical check-ups are also important.
- Get Mental Health Support
Chronic stress left unchecked can lead to more severe health conditions like anxiety, depression, and, ultimately, a stroke. If your stress feels unmanageable, seek professional help through counselling, or therapy. Maintaining strong relationships and having a support system can help significantly too.
By taking control of stress, you not only improve your quality of life but also lower your risk of stroke. It’s important to remember that small, consistent changes in daily habits can have significant long-term health benefits.
Importance of Stroke Rehabilitation
For stroke survivors, rehabilitation is essential to regain independence and improve quality of life. Rehabilitation helps patients recover lost skills and adapt to physical and cognitive challenges brought on by a stroke.
At Faircape Health, we have a sub-acute rehabilitation service which offers a level of care that occurs after the acute phase of stroke treatment, often after hospital discharge. It provides intensive, targeted therapy to bridge the gap between hospital care and long-term recovery. Unlike acute rehabilitation, which focuses on immediate medical intervention, sub-acute care emphasises restoring functionality over a longer period.
Sub-acute rehabilitation is critical in stroke recovery, and includes a combination of physical, occupational, and speech therapy to help stroke survivors regain strength, mobility, communication skills, and daily living activities. The goal is to provide comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery.
Sub-acute Rehabilitation in the Western Cape
Choosing the right rehabilitation centre is a crucial decision for stroke survivors and their families. Faircape Health, located in the scenic Western Cape, offers unparalleled sub-acute rehabilitation services designed to aid recovery in a calming, patient-centred environment.
Premium Technology
Faircape Health’s rehabilitation centres are equipped with cutting-edge technology and facilities that enhance the recovery process. From advanced physical therapy equipment to specialised speech and occupational therapy resources, the modern centre provides everything needed for a comprehensive rehabilitation experience.
Experienced Staff
At the heart of our effective stroke rehabilitation is an interdisciplinary team of skilled and experienced doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. Based in our state-of-the-art facilities, they work collaboratively to create personalised rehabilitation plans tailored to each patient’s needs. This ensures that all aspects of the patient’s recovery—physical, cognitive, and emotional—are addressed.
Tranquil Surroundings
The beautiful landscapes of the Western Cape can play an important role in the healing process. Faircape Health’s facilities are nestled in idyllic settings, offering a peaceful environment that promotes both mental and physical recovery. The natural surroundings can help reduce stress and anxiety, allowing patients to focus on their rehabilitation, whilst enjoying the great outdoors.
A Champion’s Journey of Recovery
Graeme Solomon, a world champion canoeist and surf ski paddler, faced a major health setback after a severe right frontal lobe injury and stroke in 2023. His recovery journey at Faircape Health Tokai Rehabilitation Centre showcases his remarkable resilience and the dedicated support of an interdisciplinary team.
Led by his physiotherapists, Graeme’s rehabilitation included movement-focused exercises and functional tasks, with paddling activities igniting his passion and drive. Occupational therapy initially helped him regain independence in daily activities, followed by upper limb rehabilitation, fine motor skill retraining, and balance improvement. His athlete mindset fueled his determination to approach each session as if he were in training camp, never allowing setbacks to hinder his progress.
Graeme continues to work toward his goal of reclaiming his world champion title. His journey highlights the power of perseverance, a positive mindset, and the expertise of a skilled rehabilitation team in overcoming life-altering challenges. His story serves as an inspiration to both his therapists and fellow patients.
A Final Thought: Prioritise Your Well-being
Chronic stress poses a serious risk for strokes, but the good news is that it can be managed effectively. By proactively addressing stress and prioritising overall well-being, individuals can significantly reduce their stroke risk.
For those on the path to recovery after a stroke, rehabilitation—especially sub-acute care—is crucial for achieving long-term health. Faircape Health continues to lead the way in stroke rehabilitation in the Western Cape, offering expert care tailored to each patient’s needs. Your health journey matters, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
To learn more about our services and how we can help you or your loved one on the path to recovery, visit https://faircapehealth.co.za/
