Stroke: How Can You Reduce Your Risk?

Although you can’t predict a medical emergency, there are many things you can do right now to reduce your risk of stroke.

What is a Stroke? 

A stroke, often called a “brain attack,” happens when blood flow to the brain is interrupted or stopped. It is an emergency situation. 

The brain needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients in order to work well. If blood supply is interrupted, even for a short time, disability or even death can result. Brain cells begin to die after just a few minutes without blood or oxygen. 

The Centers for Disease Control notes that although stroke typically occurs most frequently in older adults, you can have a stroke at any age. However, there are ways to reduce your stroke risk. 

Lifestyle Changes

A healthy lifestyle goes a long way toward reducing your risk for various medical conditions, including stroke. Here are some things you can do: 

• If you smoke, stop.
• Make heart-healthy food choices. Be sure to get the recommended amounts of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Choose foods that are low in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, salt (sodium), and added sugars.
• Stay at a healthy weight.
• Be physically active.
• Limit alcohol use.

Medicines That Help Reduce Stroke Risk

Talk to your doctor about your stroke risk. If your healthcare team decides your risk is higher than average, there are medicines that can help: 

• Blood-thinning medicines (anticoagulants) help prevent blood clots from forming. If you take a blood thinner, you may need regular blood tests.
• Antiplatelets, such as aspirin, may be prescribed. These medications also make blood clots less likely to form.
• Blood-pressure medicines help lower high blood pressure. High blood pressure is one of the primary risk factors for stroke.
• Cholesterol-lowering drugs make plaque less likely to build up in your artery walls and reduce the risk of stroke.
• Other heart conditions may increase the risk of stroke. Be sure and take any prescribed heart medications as directed by your physician.
• Diabetes medicines adjust blood sugar levels. Persons with diabetes face a higher risk of stroke.

Recognizing Stroke Symptoms: BE FAST

“BE FAST” is an easy way to remember the signs of a stroke. If you or somone you love experiences any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Fast emergency treatment is more likely to result in successful recovery from stroke.

 The Region’s Only Stroke Hospital Network

Covenant Health hospitals have accreditations from The Joint Commission in recognition of their ability to provide prompt diagnosis and treatment of stroke. With access to advanced technology and specialized care, the hospitals are equipped to quicily asses stroke stroke and implement rapid treatment. Learn more about stroke care at Covenant Health hospitals.

Need a physician who can help you develop a healthier lifestyle that will reduce your risk for stroke? Let us help you find a doctor to meet your specific needs.