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Neurosciences Institute - Neurology - Stroke Program - Risk Factors

Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability and the third leading cause of death in the United States. Knowing your risk factors is a vital first step in preventing this from happening to you. Many risk factors are treatable while others such as age and gender can't be controlled. If you know your risk factors, you can work at changing the ones you can control and decrease your risk for stroke.

High Blood Pressure: This is the most significant risk factor for stroke.
  • Know your baseline blood pressure and have it checked at least once a year.
  • If your blood pressure is higher than 130/90, discuss with your doctor ways to lower it.
  • If you are on blood pressure medication, take it every day as directed by your doctor.
Smoking: Tobacco use damages all the blood vessels in your body including those in your brain and is a leading cause of stroke.
  • Don't smoke or use any tobacco products. It's never too late to quit!
  • Your risk for stroke drops as soon as you stop.
  • Help is available. There are patches, programs and support groups if you can't quit on your own.
Diabetes Mellitus: Having diabetes increases your risk for stroke.
  • Work with your doctor to keep it under control.
High Cholesterol: This increases the risk of "clogging" your blood vessels. A blockage in an artery in or leading to the brain results in a stroke.
  • Know your fasting cholesterol level.
  • If high, talk to your health care provider about ways to lower it.
  • Eat a healthy diet low in saturated fats with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Atrial fibrillation and Heart Disease: They can cause the blood to pool and clot, increasing your risk for stroke.
  • See your doctor regularly.
  • Take your medicines as prescribed.
  • If you're taking coumadin (warfarin), have your clotting levels checked as prescribed by your doctor.
TIAs: Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs) are stroke like symptoms but don't last. They increase your risk for a future stroke and should be treated seriously.
  • Know the warning signs of a stroke or TIA.
  • Seek emergency medical treatment immediately.
Lifestyle Factors: Physical inactivity, obesity, stress, excessive alcohol intake and illegal drug use increase your risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease.
  • Get regular exercise.
  • Keep your weight under control.
  • Find ways to manage the stress in your life.
  • Limit alcohol use.
  • Don't use illegal drugs. IV drug abuse and cocaine carry an increased risk for stroke.

For More Information.

American Stroke Association
http://www.strokeassociation.org
Phone: (888) 4 STROKE (888 478-653)

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
http://www.ninds.nih.gov
Phone: (800) 352-9424

National Stroke Association:
http://www.stroke.org
Phone: (800) 787-6537