Articles Tagged with “risk factors” and “strokes”

A stroke is one of the leading causes of permanent disability in the US. The good news is that there are ways to reduce your risks of suffering a stroke. One of the biggest factors causing a stroke is high blood pressure. If you suffer from high blood pressure, make sure that your blood pressure is monitored regularly. Take your medications diligently, and follow a proper diet and sensible lifestyle to avoid spikes in your blood pressure that could trigger a stroke.

Smoking is also believed to be a risk factor for a stroke. The World Health Organization estimates that smokers have a risk of suffering a stroke that is 4 times higher than for non-smokers.  A healthy diet can go a long way in reducing your risk of a stroke. Fatty, high-calorie foods and drinks can clog your arteries, and increase your blood cholesterol levels, raising stroke risks. Salt is another culprit, contributing to hypertension.

Exercise is also an important part of one’s lifestyle. Even a 30-minute walk a day constitutes exercise that can help you keep your weight under control and stroke risks at bay. Undergo a regular medical screening to rule out hypertension, blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol levels and other risk factors for stroke.