Question

I need a summary of stroke diagnosis, and how a diet for them make impact a hispanic person? What does this mean to them?

What do hispanics typically eat? And their cultural practices?

After a stroke, what should a hispanic need to eat?? (Puree diet)

What foods should they limit?

Any restrictions?

Also, can I get a breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu sample?

Answer 1

Stroke diagnosis

The stroke can be diagnosed on the basis of history, clinical examination, investigations to confirm the type of stroke and selecting the treatment option. The history include sudden onset of weakness, slurring of speech, deviation of face and angle of mouth to one side, involuntary passage of urine .There may be previous history of black out that indicates transient ischemic attack (TIA). There will be history of diabetes, hypertension ,dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease etc.

Clinical examination shows irregular heart rate (in case of atrial fibrillation that leads to embolic stroke ),high blood pressure, decreased power of muscles on the affected side, positive Babinsky's sign (extension of plantar reflex) indicate the involvement of internal capsule stroke, reduced deep tendon reflex will be there.

Investigations mainly include CT scan to differentiate ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. Treatment is different for both. If the patient come to hospital within 4.5hours of onset of stroke and if it is ischemic, then thrombolysis can be done with alteplase. If hemorrhagic, the iv mannitol can be given.

Hispanic food includes whole grain, rice, fruits and vegetables. If the patient is on balanced diet, exercise, then chance of stroke is very less. More fruits and vegetables in the diet decreases the risk.

After stroke, Hispanics can eat whole grain, brown rice, vegetables and some fruits. They should avoid all the processed foods and sugars, refined wheat and refined oils.