How to Prevent a Stroke

Knowing how to prevent a stroke can literally mean the difference between life and death.  Preventing a stroke means knowing the risk factors and taking steps to reduce them.  Although the changes you need to make may not be easy, they will pay off in the long run.

1. If you are a smoker, one of the best ways to prevent a stroke is to stop.  Smoking can dramatically reduce your risk of experiencing a stroke.  In fact, after quitting smoking, a smoker has the same risk of experiencing a stroke as a nonsmoker.
2. Lowering high blood pressure is another way to prevent a stroke.  A great number of people who had strokes had hypertension.  By lowering your blood pressure numbers, you are not only reducing your risk of stroke, but also a heart attack.
3. Diabetics should carefully monitor their blood sugar levels to prevent a stroke.  Diabetics are at a greater risk of experiencing a stroke than nondiabetics.  Eating right, exercising, and taking medications as scheduled can lower blood sugar levels and improve overall health.
4. Reducing stress factors in your life can also help to prevent a stroke.  Stress can help raise blood pressure, which can cause your blood to clot.  Blood clots can lead to a stroke.  By learning effective stress management tips such as meditation, you can prevent a stroke.
5. If you are a heavy drinker, cut back on the alcohol to prevent a stroke.  Drinking large amounts of alcohol can cause an increase in blood pressure and cause a stroke.  By drinking in moderation, you are cutting your risk of experiencing a stroke.

Lifestyle changes are often difficult to undertake, but in the long run, they are important for your health.  For the most part, strokes can be prevented by making these changes.  Your doctor can help you develop a wellness plan to keep your risk factors for stroke to a minimum.

MedlinePlus: Stroke