Lowering Your Stroke Risk- Steps You Can Take Today!

A stroke occurs when a blood clot causes a blockage of blood flow to the brain. Our risk for stroke increases with age but managing risk factors can reduce the risk of stroke by almost 50%! Keep reading to learn the best ways to lower your risk for a stroke.

Manage High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is the top contributing risk factor for strokes. Uncontrolled hypertension can double your risk for a stroke! Monitoring your blood pressure with your primary physician and treating it if it is elevated, is one of the most important steps you can take toward lowering your stroke risk! Work to keep your blood pressure low by reducing your salt intake, quitting smoking, and getting more exercise.

Treat Diabetes

Untreated diabetes causes significant damage to your blood vessels which increases the likelihood for a stroke. Keep your blood sugar down by working with your doctor to monitor and treat it as is appropriate for you. You can also use diet and exercise to help keep your blood sugar within the appropriate range. If it is recommended by a doctor, manage your diabetes with medication.

Increase Your Activity Level

Regular exercise can reduce your risk of stroke by up to 25%! Exercise combats several stroke risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes. Aim to get 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least 5 days a week. If carving out a solid 30 minutes does not work for your lifestyle, you can exercise in shorter 10 - 15 minute chunks throughout the day. Activities that increase your breathing rate are key here. Walking, gardening, and taking the stairs instead of an elevator are just a few ways you can work exercise into your day.

Monitor Your Alcohol Intake- Everything in Moderation

Drinking more than one glass of alcohol per day can dramatically increase your risk of a stroke. Choosing red wine may help to prevent heart disease and stroke, so if you choose to drink alcohol red wine is a great option! Aim to have no more than one glass of alcohol per day and pay attention to your portion sizes.

Quit Smoking

Smoking has several negative effects on your vascular health that can contribute to stroke risk. Smoking alone can double your risk for a stroke; however, your body can bounce back! Within 5 years of quitting smoking your stroke risk level returns to that of a non smoker. Seek support from your doctor and your social group when quitting smoking. Using quitting smoking aids such as nicotine gum or patches, counseling, or medication increases the likelihood that your cessation will be successful.

Manage Atrial Fibrilation

Atrial fibritilation, a type of irregular heartbeat, causes blood clots to form in your heart, can increase your risk for stroke by up to five times. If you have atrial fibrilation, treating it is of the utmost imporance for your overall health and stroke risk. The most common symptoms of atrial fibrilation are heart palpitations and shortness of breath, if you are experiencing these please see your doctor to be tested. Your doctor can guide you through treatment options which may include medication.

Final Thoughts

While your risk for stroke increases with age, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk. Risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and more can be successfully addressed through diet, exercise, and when approprtiate, medication. Talk to your general practitioner to assess your stroke risk.

If you are interested in personal care for yourself or a loved one in Northern Indiana call Total at 219-937-2811 for a free in-home assessment.