Stroke Risk Factors You Can Improve Today
Knowledge is power when it comes to strokes – knowing your risk factors is the first step in preventing or reducing your chances of having one. While certain risk factors such as age and family history are out of your control, there are simple changes you can make in your day-to-day life to lessen the effects of others. So start today. Right now. Make some modifications to your diet, lifestyle and routine and you could be living a healthier, stroke-free life.
Risk factors you CAN control
- High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure can double, or even triple, your stroke risk if not controlled. In fact, it’s the single biggest contributor to the risk of stroke in both men and women. To get your blood pressure in check, reduce the amount of salt in your diet, avoid high cholesterol foods and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Additionally, consult your doctor to see if blood pressure medication could be right for you.
- Smoking
Harvard Health Publications notes that “Smoking accelerates clot formation in a couple of different ways. It thickens your blood and it increases the amount of plaque buildup in the arteries.” Along with diet and exercise, smoking cessation is one of the most powerful lifestyle changes to lower your risk of stroke.
- Weight
Obesity and its complications have been linked to stroke. Studies show that losing even 10 pounds can significantly decrease your chances of stroke. You should strive to keep a body mass index (BMI) of 25 or less.
- Physical Activity
If you live a physically inactive lifestyle, start getting up and moving. Making little modifications to your routine like going on a brisk walk, taking the stairs or walking in place while you watch television can make a big impact. Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity per day.
- Drinking
Alcohol has been linked to stroke in many studies, as drinking too much can increase blood pressure and other risks. Drink in moderation – no more than two drinks a day for men and one a day for women.
- Diabetes
The American Stroke Association reports that “Many people with diabetes also have high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and are overweight. This increases their risk even more. While diabetes is treatable, the presence of the disease still increases your risk of stroke.”
Risk factors you CAN’T control
- Age
According to the American Stroke Association, “The likelihood of having a stroke doubles every 10 years after age 55.” Strokes are more common among individuals ages 65+, although many adults, young adults and even children still experience them.
- Gender
Your gender can affect your stroke risk. Studies show that more women than men suffer strokes and die from them each year.
- Race
African Americans have a much higher risk of death from stroke than Caucasians. Hispanics and Latinos also have unique risks.
- Family History
Family history can raise your risk. It’s important to consult your doctor to talk about your risk, especially if a parent, grandparent or sibling has had a stroke.
Our extraordinary doctors and nurses at Covenant HealthCare can help you identify your stroke risks and set up a plan to get them under control.
For more information about our stroke center – which has been named a Primary Stroke Center and an American Heart Association Gold Plus Award Winner – click here.
Posted Date: 6/5/2017