Preventing a Stroke

Preventing a Stroke

There are tangible steps you can take to lower your risk of having a stroke. These steps can also improve your overall health and well-being. Read on to see how you can help protect yourself. 

Curious about your current risk level for stroke? Fill out our Risk Scorecard.

Steps to Lower Your Stroke Risk

Medical Steps

• Control your blood pressure. High blood pressure is the single most important risk factor for stroke and heart disease. 120/80 or lower is optimal.
• Find out if you have atrial fibrillation.
• 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 endarterectomy 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.

Nutrition & Lifestyle Steps

• Eat plenty of low-fat, high-fiber foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains.
• If you drink alcohol, drink moderately.
• Don’t smoke. If you do, QUIT NOW!
• Find a healthy technique for dealing with stress, such as meditation, yoga or deep breathing exercises.
• Exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
• Make time for regular recreation and relaxation!

Educational Steps

• Know the symptoms of a stroke.
• Share information about stroke symptoms and the urgency of treatment with loved ones.