Women and Stroke Risk Reduction

Stroke Risk Reduction

Talk to your physician to identify your stroke risk factors.

• High blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke. If you have high blood pressure, work with your physician to keep it under control.
• Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat that may cause blood to collect in the upper chambers of your heart. This blood can form clots and cause a stroke. If you have atrial fibrillation, work with your physician to manage it.
• Smoking doubles the risk for stroke. If you stop smoking today, your risk of stroke will decrease.
• Alcohol use is a risk factor. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
• High cholesterol can be often controlled with diet and exercise. Some people may require medication. If your cholesterol is high, work with your physician to control it.
• Diabetes can be controlled.Follow your physician’s recommendations carefully. Your physician can discuss a nutrition program, lifestyle changes and medication that can help control your diabetes.
• Exercise should be part of your daily routine. A brisk walk, swim or other exercise activity lasting as little as 30 minutes a day can improve your health and may reduce your risk for stroke.
• Lower-sodium, lower-fat diets: may help lower your blood pressure and, most importantly, lower your risk for stroke.
• Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) causes blockages in the arteries to your legs. People with PAD have an increased risk of death and disability from heart attack and stroke. Have your physician check the blood flow to your legs.