4 Morning Habits That Could Raise Your Risk of Stroke
Strokes are no longer a concern exclusive to older adults; younger individuals are increasingly at risk as well. Recognizing the importance of stroke prevention is crucial, as failing to address early warning signs can lead to severe consequences.
I recently came across a newspaper article highlighting certain morning habits that may unknowingly increase the risk of stroke. Here are some key insights shared by Dr. Nguyen Xuan Quang from the Military Medical Academy, along with advice on how to avoid these risky behaviors.
1. Jumping Out of Bed Too Quickly
It’s common for people to spring out of bed immediately after waking up, but health experts caution against this habit. During sleep, the parasympathetic nervous system keeps the heart rate and blood pressure low. Abruptly standing up activates the sympathetic nervous system, causing a sudden spike in heart rate and blood pressure.
This rapid change can strain delicate blood vessels in the brain, increasing the likelihood of a hemorrhagic stroke.
Solution: Dr. Quang advises lying still for 1–2 minutes after waking up. Gentle massages of the face, head, eyes, and neck can help ease your body into wakefulness before you get out of bed.
2. Drinking Saltwater First Thing in the Morning
Some people start their day with a glass of diluted saltwater, believing it improves oral hygiene and promotes health. However, this habit can have adverse effects.
Excessive salt intake can raise blood pressure, increasing the risk of stroke and kidney issues. Additionally, drinking saltwater on an empty stomach may irritate the stomach lining, potentially leading to inflammation or ulcers.
Solution: Opt for plain water instead of saltwater to hydrate your body after waking up.
3. Exercising Too Early in the Morning
While regular exercise is beneficial, working out before sunrise, especially in cold weather, can pose health risks. Cold temperatures may cause blood vessels to constrict, increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues, heart attacks, and strokes.
For individuals with pre-existing conditions, early-morning workouts can also lead to sleep deprivation and fatigue, further straining the body.
Solution: Schedule your exercise for a slightly later time in the morning when temperatures are more moderate.
4. Drinking Too Much Water at Once
Hydrating in the morning is essential, but consuming large amounts of water in one go can strain the heart. This is particularly risky for individuals with heart conditions, as it may cause rapid heartbeat, breathlessness, or even trigger a stroke.
Solution: Drink around 200–300ml of water after waking up, and sip slowly throughout the morning instead of consuming large amounts at once.
Final Thoughts
Stroke prevention begins with simple daily habits. Being mindful of how you start your day can have a significant impact on your long-term health. Share these insights with your loved ones to help promote a healthier, stroke-free lifestyle.
I Discovered a Box of Shoes on My Doorstep Accompanied by a Note: “THE PERSON WEARING THESE SHOES AT YOUR BIRTHDAY PARTY TODAY INTENDS TO DESTROY YOUR LIFE”
A mysterious package on Adelaide’s doorstep changed her birthday in ways she never expected. Inside was a stunning pair of shoes and a chilling note that set the stage for a night of shocking truths.
On the morning of her 35th birthday, Adelaide felt a mix of excitement and sadness. Birthdays were important to her, but this year felt different. She checked her phone, hoping for a message from James, her husband. There was nothing. He was away on a business trip and wouldn’t return until later for her party. Disheartened, she tossed aside the blanket and prepared to get out of bed when the doorbell rang, startling her.
Curious, she peeked through the peephole but saw no one. Opening the door, she found a sleek black box on the doorstep, looking like it belonged there. She picked it up and felt its weight in her hands. Inside, she discovered a beautiful pair of high heels. As she admired them, a note slipped out. Her excitement faded as she read the words: “THE ONE WHO WILL HAVE THE SAME SHOES AT YOUR BIRTHDAY PARTY TODAY WANTS TO RUIN YOUR LIFE”.
Confused and scared, she tried to make sense of the note. Who would do this? Who wanted to ruin her life? Adelaide dialed James, but it went straight to voicemail. She felt anxious, replaying interactions with her loved ones. With each passing minute, her unease grew.
Despite the delicious smell of food and the cheerful decorations for her party, her thoughts kept returning to the note. As she slipped on the shoes, they looked stunning but brought her no comfort. When James finally arrived, she nearly fell into his arms, but she struggled to tell him about the note without sounding irrational.
As guests arrived, she watched nervously, scanning their feet. Then she saw her sister, Emily, wearing the same shoes. Panic rose in her chest as Emily greeted her, completely oblivious to the turmoil inside Adelaide.
After some awkward conversation, Adelaide received a text from an unknown number. Hesitating, she opened it and gasped. The message contained a photo of James and Emily at the shoe store, clearly close and happy together. The next message explained that James had been cheating on her, and the sender had overheard him plotting to give Emily the shoes for her birthday party.
Adelaide felt betrayed and furious, but instead of collapsing, a new strength emerged within her. If they wanted to ruin her life, she would turn the tables. Gathering her guests, she announced a game called “Guess the Surprise”. She called James and Emily to the center of the room. As she connected her phone to the speaker, she felt her heart race but maintained a calm facade.
“I have a little surprise for you”, she said, and pressed play. The audio of James and Emily’s conversation filled the room, exposing their deceit. Gasps rippled through the crowd as they realized the truth. James lunged at her, desperate to stop the humiliation, but she held her ground.
Once the recording ended, silence enveloped the room. Adelaide confronted James, ordering him to leave by morning. Turning to Emily, she expressed her hurt, declaring she never wanted to see her again.
With that, she walked away, leaving them in shock. After the guests departed, she went to find Samantha, the sales assistant who had sent the messages. When she found her, she expressed heartfelt gratitude.
“Thank you”, Adelaide said. “You saved my life.” Samantha smiled, explaining that sometimes the truth is the greatest gift. As Adelaide left, she felt lighter, realizing that revenge can indeed be sweet, especially when it comes in a perfect pair of shoes.
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