Learn About Your Risk Factors Of Stroke

According to the WHO, around 1 out of 4 adults above 25 years of age will have a stroke around the globe. Though a stroke can happen to anyone, certain risk factors increase the probability of a stroke. Stroke is preventable, and its after-effects can be managed with rehabilitation from experts. Read below to know what the risk factors are and how you can manage them.

Risk Factors For Stroke

There are several factors that can put you at risk of a stroke.  Some of these can be managed by modifying your lifestyle choices. However, many factors are beyond your control. Some of the risk factors are

• Heart diseases: Some heart diseases, such as coronary artery disease, can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries supplying blood to the brain. Thus, leading to stroke.
• High cholesterol and high blood pressure: A blood pressure of 140/90 or above can cause damage to blood vessels that supply blood to the brain. Thus, increasing the risk of a stroke. Similarly, when you consume excess amounts of cholesterol, this extra amount gets deposited in the arteries of the brain. Thereby leading to issues like stroke. However, such risk factors can be managed by managing your lifestyle and diet.
• Family history and genetics: Some diseases run in the family. If someone in your family had a stroke, then the chances of you getting a cerebral stroke increase. You should be upfront about your family history with the healthcare provider so that your risk of having a stroke can be accurately assessed. Certain genetic diseases such as sickle cell anemia can also lead to stroke. Also, stroke has been found to be more common in men as compared to women although more females die from the condition.
• Age: As you grow older, the risk of getting a stroke also increases. Once you turn 55, the likelihood of a stroke roughly doubles every 10 years. Though it is frequently found in older people, stroke can also occur in people below 65 years of age.
• Obesity: Diseases such as obesity have been linked to high blood pressure, which may increase the possibility of a stroke.
• Unhealthy lifestyle choices: Unhealthy eating habits such as the consumption of foods rich in saturated fats and high amounts of salt can raise cholesterol levels.

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Managing The Risk Factors For Stroke

Though factors such as age and gender are not in your hand, you can still take decisions to reduce your chances of having a stroke. Here are some simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of stroke:

• Restrict your salt intake to maintain normal levels of blood pressure
• Avoid foods that have high amounts of cholesterol, such as ice cream, cheese, and burgers
• Try to exercise for a minimum of 30 minutes a day.
• Avoid smoking and limit your alcohol intake
• Try to have a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fruits
• Monitor your weight
• Since diabetes is another risk factor for a stroke, you should monitor the levels of your blood sugar regularly and use methods like medications, diet, and exercise to keep your blood sugar under control.

Discussing The Risk Factors With A Doctor

You should discuss the risk factors and the solutions for the conditions that could lead to a stroke with your doctor.   If you have already experienced a stroke once, your healthcare team will guide you on different measures that could prevent another stroke from happening. You should follow the instructions and medications as described by your doctor. With our telemedicine platform, you can avail of consultation from renowned and board-certified neurologists and rehabilitation experts for your stroke management.

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Conclusion

Prevention of stroke is possible by identifying the risk factors at the earliest. Regardless of your family history or age, your risk of stroke can be reduced by making the necessary lifestyle changes. Consider regular check-ups with your doctor to detect any problems before they become serious.

Reference Links:

• https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/stroke/risk-factors-for-stroke
• https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/prevention.htm
• https://www.world-stroke.org/world-stroke-day-campaign/why-stroke-matters/learn-about-stroke