what are the causes of stroke - #39103

It’s understandable to feel concerned about the causes of stroke, especially after an experience like your dad’s. Strokes can indeed be complex, with several contributing factors, but understanding them can empower you to take preventive measures. In Ayurveda, a stroke is often related to an imbalance of the Vata dosha affecting the nervous system, disrupting the flow of prana (life force energy), and potentially causing weaknesses, paralysis, or changes in consciousness.

Common causes, as modern medicine identifies, include high blood pressure and diabetes, as you mentioned. In Ayurveda, these conditions might be linked to an imbalance in the Kapha dosha, leading to blockages or constrictions in the channels (srotas) of the body, which affects circulation and could lead to clotting or interruptions.

Stress, indeed, can be a significant factor, triggering an elevation in blood pressure. From an Ayurvedic perspective, stress may disturb all three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Practices like meditation, pranayama (breathing exercises), and Yoga can help balance these energies, potentially reducing the effect on blood pressure and the cardiovascular system. Encourage your father to incorporate relaxation techniques as part of his daily routine.

Regarding diet, yes, reducing salt intake and avoiding saturated fats is critical, but Ayurveda also emphasizes a balanced diet to maintain dosha harmony. Favor freshly prepared, easily digestible foods that are light and warm. Consider spicing meals with turmeric, ginger, and garlic—herbs that support healthy circulation and maintain heart health. Avoid heavy, fried, or overly processed foods which are seen as tamasic (increasing inertia) and may contribute to Kapha and ama (toxins) buildup.

Encourage a consistent daily routine that supports his natural body clock—waking, eating, and sleeping at regular times. A light early dinner, not too close to bedtime, aids digestion, further helping prana to circulate efficiently.

Monitor blood pressure and maintain regular medical check-ups to catch any warning signs early on. While Ayurveda offers valuable preventive strategies and complements other treatments, always prioritize any medical recommendations from your father’s healthcare providers.