Core Points - The article discusses the issue of blood viscosity, its causes, symptoms, and preventive measures against high blood viscosity, which can lead to serious health problems like heart attacks and strokes [3][8]. Group 1: Understanding Blood Viscosity - Blood viscosity refers to the "thickness" and "flowability" of blood, which increases due to a higher concentration of formed elements, leading to increased blood flow resistance and slower blood flow [3][5]. - Factors contributing to increased blood viscosity include the deformation and aggregation of red blood cells, increased platelet count, elevated levels of certain proteins in plasma, high blood lipids (especially cholesterol and triglycerides), and dehydration [5][7]. Group 2: Health Risks Associated with High Blood Viscosity - Increased blood viscosity primarily affects capillaries, obstructing oxygen and nutrient delivery, which can lead to ischemia and hypoxia in tissues [7]. - High viscosity can exacerbate friction against blood vessel walls, accelerating aging and damage to the vascular endothelium, potentially leading to atherosclerosis and thrombosis [7][8]. Group 3: Symptoms Indicating High Blood Viscosity - Five key symptoms that may indicate high blood viscosity include: 1. Dizziness upon waking, due to reduced blood flow and oxygen to the brain [10][11]. 2. Increased drowsiness after meals, particularly in individuals with vascular issues [13]. 3. Chest tightness when squatting, often seen in obese individuals [13]. 4. Cyanosis of lips after mild exertion, indicating potential hypoxia [13]. 5. Intermittent blurred vision, resulting from reduced blood flow to the retina [13][14]. Group 4: Preventive Measures - To prevent or reduce blood viscosity, the following measures are recommended: 1. Stay hydrated by drinking approximately 200 milliliters of warm water at key times throughout the day [16][17]. 2. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can damage blood vessels and increase blood viscosity [19]. 3. Maintain a balanced diet, reducing intake of cholesterol-rich foods and sugars while increasing vegetables, fruits, and whole grains [20]. 4. Engage in regular physical activity to promote circulation and manage weight [21]. 5. Manage stress and ensure adequate sleep to prevent emotional factors from contributing to high blood viscosity [22].

Core Insights - The article highlights the increasing incidence of cerebrovascular diseases, particularly strokes, during the autumn and winter seasons, emphasizing the urgency of timely medical intervention to prevent severe consequences [1][2]. Group 1: Cerebrovascular Disease Overview - Cerebrovascular diseases, including ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke, are categorized under the term "stroke," with ischemic strokes accounting for 70% to 80% of cases and hemorrhagic strokes for 20% to 30% [2]. - The recurrence rate of strokes in autumn and winter is over 30% higher than in spring and summer, attributed to climatic factors such as lower temperatures leading to increased blood pressure and blood viscosity [2]. Group 2: Warning Signs of Stroke - Three critical warning signs indicate potential cerebrovascular blockage: transient vision loss, sudden motor function impairment, and temporary speech difficulties [3][4][6][8]. - These symptoms often precede a stroke and should prompt immediate medical attention [3]. Group 3: Risk Factors for Stroke - Common risk factors for stroke include poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, chronic dehydration, small vessel disease, and nighttime hypertension [10][11][12][14]. - A diet high in salt, sugar, and fat can significantly increase stroke risk, with studies indicating that reducing salt intake by 3 grams daily can lower stroke risk by 20% [10]. - Sedentary behavior, defined as sitting for more than 8 hours a day, raises stroke risk by 20% [11]. - Chronic dehydration can nearly double the risk of stroke, highlighting the importance of adequate fluid intake [12]. Group 4: Prevention Strategies - Experts recommend lifestyle modifications to prevent strokes, such as avoiding sudden physical exertion, managing emotional stress, and maintaining proper hydration [16][17]. - Regular health check-ups for individuals over 30 are advised to monitor blood pressure, blood sugar, and blood lipid levels [13].

Core Viewpoint - The eyes serve as a "monitor" for brain diseases, particularly for conditions like cerebral infarction, which has high recurrence, disability, and mortality rates [1][2][3] Group 1: Connection Between Eyes and Brain - The optic nerve is a direct extension of the brain, and the anatomical structure of the eye's blood vessels is similar to that of the brain's blood vessels [1][3] - Changes in the eye can reflect underlying brain conditions, as the eye and brain share a common blood supply system [3] Group 2: Warning Signs of Cerebral Infarction - Approximately 20%-50% of patients with cerebral infarction may exhibit significant eye abnormalities prior to the onset of the condition [2] - Four specific eye symptoms may indicate a risk of cerebral infarction: - Sudden blackening of vision in one eye [4] - Loss of vision in the same side of both eyes [4] - Double vision [4] - Nystagmus, which can indicate cerebellar or brainstem infarction [5] Group 3: Recommended Actions for Eye Symptoms - If eye symptoms are occasional, patients should first consult an ophthalmologist to rule out eye diseases [6] - For sudden or recurrent eye symptoms accompanied by dizziness or speech difficulties, immediate consultation with a neurologist or emergency department is advised [6] - Timely treatment within 4.5 hours of symptom onset significantly increases recovery chances for cerebral infarction [6]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the symptoms of numbness that may indicate the early signs of a stroke, emphasizing the importance of recognizing these symptoms for timely medical intervention [1][3]. Group 1: Symptoms of Stroke - Numbness in three specific areas—tongue, face, and one-sided limbs—should raise concerns about the risk of stroke [3][5][6]. - Tongue numbness can affect speech and swallowing, indicating potential brain blood supply issues [5]. - Facial numbness may lead to asymmetrical facial expressions, signaling possible nerve damage due to insufficient blood flow [5]. - One-sided limb numbness is a common precursor to stroke, often indicating that one side of the brain is affected [6]. Group 2: Characteristics of Numbness Related to Stroke - Numbness from cerebrovascular diseases typically occurs suddenly without warning, and may happen during rest or physical activity [6][7]. - It is often unilateral, affecting one side of the body, and can progress from transient to persistent numbness as blood supply issues worsen [6]. - Unlike numbness caused by other conditions, such as cervical or lumbar spine issues, stroke-related numbness does not improve with position changes [7]. Group 3: Accompanying Symptoms - Stroke-related numbness is often accompanied by weakness, dizziness, headaches, vision problems, and memory decline [8]. - Other alarming signs include sudden dizziness, vomiting, tinnitus, and instability while standing [8]. Group 4: Risk Factors for Stroke - Stroke risk factors include both uncontrollable factors (age, gender, genetic background) and controllable factors (hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, and poor lifestyle choices) [9]. - Sedentary behavior can increase blood viscosity and lead to plaque formation in blood vessels, heightening stroke risk [10]. - High salt and oil intake can elevate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, contributing to vascular damage [12]. - Emotional fluctuations and severe snoring during sleep can also increase the likelihood of stroke by affecting blood pressure and oxygen levels [14][16]. Group 5: Recommendations for Prevention - It is advised to take breaks from sitting every hour to promote blood circulation [11]. - Daily salt intake should be limited to under 5 grams, and healthier cooking oils should be used [13]. - Stress management techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, are recommended to mitigate emotional impacts on vascular health [14]. - Individuals experiencing severe snoring should adjust their sleeping positions and seek medical evaluation [17]. - Smoking cessation is crucial, as smokers face a significantly higher risk of stroke compared to non-smokers [18].

Group 1 - High temperatures, high humidity, and low pressure are significant contributors to cardiovascular diseases, with an increase in heart attack patients reported in Hangzhou [1] - The director of the cardiology department at Zhejiang University Second Hospital noted that over 20 heart attack patients have been treated in the past month due to the heat [1] - Factors such as skin blood vessel dilation, increased blood viscosity, and emotional stress during hot weather can elevate the risk of heart attacks [1] Group 2 - Patients with hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia are advised to monitor their blood pressure daily and adhere strictly to medication regimens [2] - Recommendations include drinking warm water in small amounts, avoiding cold drinks, and exercising during cooler times of the day [2] - Immediate medical attention is crucial if symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness occur, as these may indicate serious conditions like heart failure or stroke [2]