A stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery in the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. This can damage brain cells and lead to various health problems. While you can't always prevent a stroke, you can take steps to lower your risk.
Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Stroke Risk
- Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of stroke. Aim to maintain a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI).
- Eat a heart-healthy diet. Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium.
- Get regular exercise. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Quit smoking. Smoking significantly increases your risk of stroke.
- Limit alcohol consumption. Excessive alcohol use can raise blood pressure and increase stroke risk.
Managing Underlying Conditions
- Control high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke. Work with your doctor to manage this condition.
- Manage diabetes. Diabetes can damage blood vessels and increase your risk of stroke.
- Control high cholesterol. High cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque in your arteries, increasing your risk of stroke.
- Manage atrial fibrillation. This heart condition can increase your risk of stroke.
Other Important Factors
- Get regular medical checkups. Regular checkups can help detect and manage any underlying conditions that could increase your risk of stroke.
- Know the signs of a stroke. Being aware of the warning signs of stroke can help you get prompt medical attention.
- Take medications as prescribed. If you have been prescribed medications to manage a health condition that increases your risk of stroke, take them as directed by your doctor.
By making these lifestyle changes and managing underlying conditions, you can significantly reduce your risk of stroke.
