What Causes Ischemic Stroke and Can CBD Help?

A stroke is when you lose blood flow to your brain, either fully or partially. Without receiving adequate oxygen, brain cells begin to die. A stroke — ischemic or other type — is a medical emergency.

What Causes Stroke and Ischemic Blocked Blood Flow?

An ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke, and it occurs when there’s a blockage in or narrowing of an artery responsible for blood flow to the brain. This can happen when deposits of fat or other materials build up in the artery or when blood clots develop.

Because of its connection with fat deposits, ischemic stroke is more likely in people with unhealthy lifestyles. If you are carrying extra weight on your body or lead a relatively sedentary life, you are at higher risk for a stroke. You may also be at higher risk if you drink an excessive amount of alcohol.

Aside from lifestyle habits, there are also medical factors that can make ischemic stroke more likely. These include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. These conditions often accompany obesity, but not always. So even if you are at a healthy weight, you may have risk factors for blocked blood flow.

A family history of stroke or cardiovascular problems also increases your risk.

What Are the Symptoms of an Ischemic Stroke?

If you’ve had a stroke, it’s important to get medical treatment right away. That’s why it’s crucial to recognize the symptoms. These include:

•         Dizziness

•         Vision disruptions

•         Weakness on one or both sides of the body or face

•         Confusion

CBD for Blood Flow and Ischemic Stroke

If you’re high risk for a stroke or if you’ve been treated for one, CBD oil may be a good addition to your regimen, along with lifestyle changes. Research indicates that CBD has neuroprotective properties that can help shield the brain from damage during stroke, for instance.

Additionally, CBD has appetite suppression properties that can aid with healthy weight loss, and certain compounds in it may also work to lower blood pressure. Your dosage will depend on your weight and sensitivity to CBD, but you can start with a very small amount and then add more if needed.