OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE P E N N S Y LVA N I A R U R A L S T R O K E I N I T I AT I V E
WINTER 2005
What is a TIA?
A TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack) is a “mini stroke” that occurs when blood does not flow through an artery for a short period of time.
Remember, TIA is a warning sign. If you experience any of the above symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately. Rapid treatment can lead the way to a faster recovery from a stroke. Winter Recipe: Turkey Chili 1 16 ounce can pinto beans (with juice) 1 16 ounce kidney beans (with juice) 1 8 ounce can tomato paste 16 ounces water 24 ounces diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) 1/4 green bell pepper chopped 1/4 onion, chopped 1 pound ground turkey 1 TBS chili powder 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1/2 TBS garlic powder 1 TBS no-salt seasoning Brown ground turkey over medium heat. Drain. Combine remaining ingredients in crockpot, cook on low all day. May sprinkle with reduced fat cheddar cheese (if desired). Nutritional Information: • Serving size-2 cups • Calories-approx 260 • Total Fat-2 grams • % cals from fat-5
Why is it important to know what a TIA is?
The symptoms of a TIA are like the warning signs of a stroke but they usually last only a few minutes. About 10% of strokes are preceded by TIA’s. TIA’s are strong predictors of stroke risk. Remember, • Don’t ignore warning signs of stroke in yourself or in someone else. • Stroke is a medical emergency! • Rapid treatment under 3 hours can improve stroke outcome! • Call 9-1-1 or seek emergency medical attention immediately!
Symptoms or warning signs of a TIA
•Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body. • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding. •Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes. •Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination. •Sudden severe headache
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Ask the nurse: I started walking and feel like I have made progress. Now that the clocks have turned back, it gets dark earlier and it is colder. How can I continue my exercise program when the weather turns cold? Reply: It is important to keep active even if the weather does not want to cooperate. You can continue to walk as long as the temperatures remain above 40 degrees and there is no rain or snow. Dressing in layers can help protect you from the cold initially, and the layers can then be removed as you warm up. If it is dusk, wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight. You can also try walking indoors: Many malls and shopping centers now have walking trails marked. The best time to go is before the stores actually open for business as you won’t be jostled by those shoppers looking for a bargain. Treadmills and/or stationary bikes can also keep you active through the winter.
Making Spirits Bright!
Holidays should be a time for joy and sharing. For some of us who have lost someone to stroke, or are recovering from stroke, the holidays can bring stress and sadness. Here are some tips on how to beat the blues: • Stay as active as you can. Keep up with exercise at the gym, community center or YMCA. • Make a plan for your day. Set attainable goals and include some time for relaxation, looking through magazines, or enjoying the weather. • Stay in contact with others. Call or write your friends, family or acquaintances. Accept invitations. Ask someone to come over for a visit. • Offer to help others. Volunteer at the hospital or community center. Help at soup kitchens. Volunteer at your place of worship. • Let the sunlight in. Whenever possible open the curtains and blinds. Turn on extra light. Use safe holiday lights to brighten things up.
From everyone associated with the Pennsylvania Rural Stroke Initiative, Happy Holidays!
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