Sudden Dizziness, Numbness in Limbs May Be Warning Signs of Stroke

A renowned traditional Chinese medicine practitioner provides nine key warning signs of a stroke, as well as herbs, foods, and acupressure of benefit.
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Stroke is a common cardiovascular disease that often occurs suddenly. Therefore, it is crucial to be vigilant about the warning signs and take early preventive measures. Yan-Ling Dong, a renowned traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner in Taiwan, outlined the warning signs of a stroke and provided dietary recommendations for prevention on a television program.

Sudden Onset of Stroke

Dong noted that in ancient China, TCM understood the concept of stroke. It was believed to be related to wind, with the disease progressing rapidly and suddenly, making it unpredictable and unavoidable—a person might appear normal and then suddenly collapse. In modern medicine, stroke refers to a cerebrovascular condition that typically occurs abruptly and progresses swiftly.

Strokes can be divided into two main types: hemorrhagic and ischemic.

A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing a blood clot that compresses brain cells and disrupts the blood supply. It can be further classified into intracerebral hemorrhage and subarachnoid hemorrhage.

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An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood vessel is blocked, leading to insufficient blood flow to brain cells. Ischemic stroke can be further classified into cerebral embolism and cerebral thrombosis.

9 Key Warning Signs of a Stroke

Stroke symptoms can vary due to individual differences in health conditions. Dong has identified the following as potential warning signs of a stroke:
1. Memory loss and difficulty concentrating: This type of memory loss differs from dementia—it refers to sudden, brief episodes of amnesia that improve after a short while, indicating mild blood circulation issues in the brain.
2. Dizziness and vertigo: Occasionally accompanied by headaches or a sensation of heaviness in the head, along with a ringing sound in the ears.
3. Twitching: This includes eyelid twitching, facial muscle contractions, and muscle tremors.
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4. Numbness in the scalp and extremities: This includes temporary numbness in the fingers, which is quite common.
5. Tremors: This includes thumb shaking, occasional soreness in the ankles, and leg cramps during sleep.
6. Slowed speech and movement: This may include aphasia and reduced responsiveness to instructions.
7. Uncontrollable drooling: without an apparent cause.
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8. Mental Fatigue, drowsiness, and abnormal blood pressure: High blood pressure can lead to a stroke by rupturing blood vessels in the brain, while low blood pressure may prevent sufficient blood flow to the brain, potentially causing an ischemic stroke.
9. Persistent headaches: Headaches that change from intermittent to constant, accompanied by neck stiffness and possibly nausea.

Recommended Foods for Stroke Prevention

Diet is closely linked to our health. Dong noted that conditions such as stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease, which are now very common, are closely related to dietary habits. Therefore, the best way to prevent a stroke is to follow a healthy diet. He recommends the following foods for stroke prevention:

1. Garlic

Garlic has detoxifying properties and helps to “unclog” blood vessels. Purple garlic and solo garlic are particularly beneficial for health. Solo garlic consists of only one large clove, and it is relatively difficult to find in the market.

2. Onion

Onions are rich in flavonols, a type of flavonoid known for its powerful health benefits. Research has shown that flavonoid-rich foods possess anti-inflammatory, anti-atherogenic, and antithrombotic properties. Regular consumption of these foods, in moderation, has been linked to a reduced risk of ischemic stroke, making onions and other flavonoid-rich foods valuable additions to a heart-healthy diet.

3. Shiitake Mushrooms

Research has shown that the bio-components in shiitake mushrooms can scavenge free radicals and inhibit the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins. This suggests that shiitake mushrooms possess anti-atherosclerotic properties and can be used as a dietary treatment for cardiovascular diseases.

4. Wheat

Wheat is an essential whole grain. A 2017 study published in the journal Stroke found that higher consumption of whole grain cereals and bran was significantly associated with a reduced risk of ischemic stroke. Whole grains can help lower blood pressure, provide antioxidant benefits, and improve lipid levels, glucose, and insulin metabolism, thereby supporting cardiometabolic health.

5. Corn

Corn is a high-fiber food with excellent nutritional value. Research has shown that eating corn regularly can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and obesity, while also improving digestive health.

6. Brown Rice

White rice, while a popular staple, falls short in nutritional value compared to its whole-grain counterpart, brown rice. The refining process removes the outer layer of white rice, stripping away essential nutrients. In contrast, brown rice retains this layer, offering significantly higher levels of fiber.
Fiber plays a crucial role in maintaining stable blood sugar levels and aids in reducing the absorption of fat and cholesterol, leading to lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels. These benefits contribute to a reduced risk of strokes and overall cardiovascular health. From a health standpoint, brown rice emerges as the superior choice for those seeking a more nutritious and balanced diet.

7. Green tea

Catechins in green tea can help improve body metabolism. A study found that drinking green tea is inversely associated with the risk of stroke in middle-aged and older men. The study also highlighted that the catechins in green tea have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antithrombotic effects.

8. Longevity Tea With Tian Ma

Ingredients:
5 grams each of:
  • Gastrodia elata (Tian Ma)
  • Solomon’s seal (Yu Zhu)
  • Tuber fleeceflower (He Shou Wu)
  • Red sage (Dan Shen)
  • Mulberry leaves (Sang Ye)
  • 1 liter water
Preparation: Boil the ingredients in 33.81 fluid ounces (one liter) of water to make tea.
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This tea helps promote blood circulation, stabilize blood pressure, and prevent atherosclerosis.

Gastrodia elata can promote cerebral metabolism. A review indicated that Gastrodia elata is beneficial for cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension (high blood pressure), atherosclerosis, and thrombosis.
Gastrodia elata can provide therapeutic effects for cardiovascular conditions by:
  • Inhibiting inflammation
  • Suppressing cell apoptosis
  • Regulating autophagy
  • Improving metabolism
  • Reducing oxidative stress
  • Modulate gut microbiota
Tuber fleeceflower is nutrient-rich and can boost metabolism. Red sage is a commonly used herb known for its ability to activate blood circulation and dissipate blood stasis. Solomon’s seal, which resembles beans, is highly nutritious and often used to address eye problems. Mulberry leaves have cooling properties, making them ideal for tea.

Acupressure for Stroke Prevention

Dr. Dong introduces two acupoints that are beneficial for health. Regularly stimulating these acupoints can improve blood circulation and help prevent strokes.

According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), meridians are the channels through which energy flows in the human body. They are responsible for transporting qi and blood—the fundamental substances that constitute and sustain human life—throughout the body.

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Along the meridians are specific points known as acupoints, which possess unique functions. By stimulating the corresponding acupoints through techniques like acupuncture and massage, it is possible to treat diseases related to specific organs.

1. Hegu acupoint: Located in the depression between the first and second metacarpal bones, towards the side of the index finger. Pressing this acupoint can promote circulation of qi and blood in the head and face.
Location of Hegu acupoint. (The Epoch Times)
Location of Hegu acupoint. The Epoch Times
2. Yanglingquan acupoint: Located on the outer side of the lower leg, in the depression below the head of the fibula. Pressing this acupoint can help relieve muscle tension and boost metabolism.
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Location of Yanglingquan acupoint. (The Epoch Times)
Location of Yanglingquan acupoint. The Epoch Times

Case Study: Emergency Stroke Treatment in TCM

Dong recounted an incident involving an 86-year-old friend who suffered a stroke while urinating at night. By the time Dong arrived, the friend was already unconscious. He observed that, although the blood vessels had not ruptured, there was significant congestion and the blood was highly concentrated.

After examining the patient’s head, Dong found that blood had pooled at the top. He quickly took steps to relieve the pressure to prevent the potential rupture of blood vessels. Dong performed bloodletting at the Baihui acupoint on the top of the head, releasing seven or eight drops of dark blood. He also needled the Yongquan acupoint on the sole of the foot. This combined approach effectively alleviated the patient’s symptoms and provided significant relief.

Note: Some herbs mentioned in this article may be unfamiliar, but are generally available in health food and Asian grocery stores. It is important to note that treatment methods may vary depending on the individual. Please consult with a health care professional for a specific treatment plan.