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Geriatrics & Age Management
Question #15855
96 days ago
148

how to avoid paralysis - #15855

Tanmay

I am really worried about my grandma, she’s been having these weird numbness spells in her legs, and sometimes she can hardly move after they happen. Last week, she had this terrible episode after she was gardening, and it gave us all a scare! The doctors say her blood pressure is kinda high which might be related, but they haven’t really given us clear answers on how to avoid paralysis, you know? I’ve read some stuff online about exercises and diet changes that could help, but I’m not sure which ones are actually effective for preventing paralysis. It’s like there’s just too much info out there, and I don’t know what’s legit or not. I mean, what if she has another episode and we’re not prepared? How do we even start focusing on ways to avoid paralysis? Her doctor mentioned physical therapy, but I feel like we need to do more than that, and I don’t want to sit around waiting for something to happen again. Anyone have advice on how to avoid paralysis, like diet suggestions or specific exercises? Or is there more we should be doing? It’s sort of stressing me out trying to figure this all out for her!

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Doctors' responses

When it comes to preventing paralysis, especially in your grandma’s situation where numbness and mobility issues are occurring, it’s crucial to approach this from several angles. The first thing is to keep the underlying issues like high blood pressure (hypertension) under control since uncontrolled hypertension can contribute to strokes or other cardiovascular events that might lead to paralysis. Make sure that her blood pressure is regularly monitored and managed, possibly through lifestyle modifications and medication as advised by her doctor. Diet-wise, a heart-healthy diet that’s low in salt, saturated fats, and cholesterol can help manage blood pressure levels. Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats such as those found in nuts or fish. Encouraging your grandma to maintain a moderate weight can also reduce strain on the cardiovascular system. Regular aerobic exercise like walking, swimming, or cycling may improve circulation and reduce stroke risk, but ensure any new exercise regime is approved by a healthcare provider to avoid injury or undue strain. Besides physical activity, regular balance and strength exercises might reduce the risk of falls, which can also contribute to mobility problems. Think about exercises like Tai Chi or simple home yoga, which can enhance her stability. Considering the numbness she’s experiencing, it’s essential to rule out potential causes like peripheral neuropathy or other neurological disorders. If her doctor suggests physical therapy, it should be pursued as it can offer personalized exercises to improve her strength and mobility. If your grandma experiences severe weakness, difficulty speaking, or confusion, seek medical attention promptly as these can be signs of a stroke. Remember, timely diagnosis and intervention are key in such serious conditions.

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