Learn the Top Ways to Prevent a Stroke Today

Learn the Top Ways to Prevent a Stroke Today : Did you know that strokes kill 140,000 Americans each year? That’s a scary statistic, and you must wonder how to prevent strokes.

In this article, you’ll learn how to prevent such a horrifying statistic from happening to you. Read on to discover these top prevention tips to give you peace of mind before it’s too late.

Risk Factors

While anyone can get a stroke, there are certain risk factors that increase your chances of experiencing a stroke. As you age, unfortunately, the risk of a stroke goes up after 55.

Men are more likely than women to experience a stroke. Certain races experience strokes at a higher rate than others. African-Americans experience strokes more often including deadly occurrences.

It’s also higher for Hispanic-Americans as well. Strokes run in families, so it’s vital to look at your family’s history to see if anyone suffered a stroke. Sometimes families can have a genetic tendency toward strokes such as high blood pressure or cholesterol.

Healthy Eating

When you’re eating, it’s vital you eat healthy for both your meals and snacks to prevent strokes. Choose foods low in trans fats, saturated fats, and cholesterol. Instead, choose foods that are high in fiber and limited salt intake.
Lower Your Blood Pressure

Maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol is vital in stroke prevention.

If your blood pressure is too high, it’ll set you up for an increased risk of having a stroke. What occurs with high blood pressure is it causes thickening on your artery walls which then has cholesterol and other fats build up causing plaque.

This can lead to blocking your brain’s blood supply. Talk with your doctor about ways to lower your blood pressure such as healthy eating, exercise, and medication you can take.
Don’t Smoke

The nicotine in smoke can raise your blood pressure, and carbon monoxide decreases the amount of oxygen your blood carries. Don’t just avoid smoking, but stay away from second-hand smoke as well.

If you aren’t sure how to quit, talk to your doctor about different options to help you kick the habit.
Exercise

Exercising can help maintain lower cholesterol and maintain a healthy weight. Try to get out and exercise at least 30 minutes a day 5 days a week. Anything that elevates your heart is beneficial such as a brisk walk or cardio.
Heart Disease

If you suffer from atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, valve defects, or an enlargement of one of the heart’s chambers, you’re at an increased risk of a stroke.

Your doctor might prescribe you aspirin to decrease your chance of having a stroke by preventing clots. Learn more about different conditions such as strokes and how to help fight them at brain charity appeals.

Steps to Prevent Strokes

While the thought of having a stroke can be scary, it’s important to prevent strokes for a healthy and long lifespan.

Would you like to learn more about other health conditions? Check out our other articles.