There are two types of stroke risk factors.
Risk Factors Under Your Control – Keep your stroke risks low with regular checkups and treatment for these conditions if you have them.
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Diet
- Lack of exercise
- Obesity
- Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol
- Diabetes
- High Blood Cholesterol
- Heart Disease
Risk Factors that are not Within Your Control – You can’t control some risk factors, but it’s important you know them.
- Age
- Family History
- Race
- Gender
- Prior Stroke, TIA or Hear Attack
Preventing a Stroke
According to the National Stroke Association, up to 80 percent of strokes can be prevented.
The following activities may help prevent a stroke:
- Exercise regularly
- Eat fruits and vegetables and limit salt and fat.
- Don’t smoke.
- Drink alcohol only in moderation
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Monitor blood pressure
- Control your cholesterol
- Manage diabetes and keep blood sugar down
- Talk to your doctor about aspirin or other medications