Below we have listed the most common medical and lifestyle factors to take into consideration if you want to lower your risk of experiencing a stroke.
Controlling high blood pressure if you have one
This is one of the most important things you can do to reduce the risk of experiencing a stroke. If you’ve had a stroke, lowering your blood pressure can help prevent a subsequent TIA or stroke. High blood pressure can be treated effectively which you can discuss with your doctor.
Lower cholesterol levels if elevated
Since high cholesterol levels is one of the most powerful stroke causes, it is a paramount to keep it normal by diet and if necessary – medication. Speak to your doctor regarding specific measures to be taken if you have a high cholesterol.
Follow your glucose levels and treat diabetes if you have it
High glucose level is one of top stroke causes. In case blood glucose levels are raised, discuss the issue with your doctor and treat it seriously.
Blood thinning medications
These are often used in case of heart arrhythmia, or any problems to heart valves to prevent blood clots from forming in the heart or on valves. Please speak to your doctor about lowering the risk of stroke in case you have any condition described above.
Keep weight down and exercise
Your chances of a stroke go up if you’re overweight. You can lower your odds by staying physically active which helps reduce your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Healthy diet
Diet that increases your risk of stroke is one that’s high in salt, saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol. To keep cholesterol levels in check avoid such foods and choose a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats instead.
Quit smoking
If you smoke, quitting now will lower your risk of experiencing a stroke. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke as well.
Consume alcohol in moderation
Heavy alcohol consumption increases your risk of high blood pressure, ischemic strokes and hemorrhagic strokes. Alcohol may also interact with other drugs you’re taking.
Get regular checkups
Stay on top of your health. This means getting regular checkups (for cholesterol and blood pressure) and managing other health conditions you may have. Discuss medication options with your doctor if necessary and address any other health concerns you may have.
Prevention is possible, whether you’re preventing a first stroke or trying to prevent a second. Together with your doctor you can find a prevention strategy that works best for you, either with medical intervention, lifestyle changes or most likely with both combined.
Generally, the more risk factors you are exposed to, the higher your chance of getting a stroke. Therefore, it is very important that you take good care of your health and manage the factors that are in your hands to help you against experiencing a stroke.
