Stroke Prevention

Here are some steps you can take for better stroke prevention:

• Control your blood pressure. High blood pressure is the single most important risk factor for stroke and heart disease. 120/80 or less is optimal.
• Find out if you have atrial fibrillation.
• Find a healthy outlet for stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
• Exercise regularly at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
• Eat plenty of low-fat, high-fiber foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains.
• Don’t smoke. If you do, quit!
• If you have narrowed arteries, your doctor may suggest anti-clotting medications such as aspirin or a prescription drug to reduce the chance of clots. Surgical procedures, such as carotid endarterectomies and carotid stenting, are sometimes used to widen narrowed vessels in the neck.
• If you have diabetes, take steps to control it. This disease can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of stroke.
• If you drink alcohol, drink moderately.
• Know the symptoms of stroke.