Lifestyle

Here is a review of some of the risk factors and how you can prevent a stroke (or another one) from happening:

1. Exercise consistently- move more and sit less

   A good goal to attain is to have 150 minutes of exercise every week. Focus more on moving and less on sitting if you cannot reach this goal every week.

2. Control and monitor blood cholesterol

   Make sure to have your blood cholesterol tested every 5 years (unless told otherwise by a licensed healthcare professional) and make sure to see your primary care physician for an annual checkup.

3. Control your Diabetes

   The best way to prevent a stroke caused by diabetes is to take care of your blood sugar levels. It might be a good idea to get your cholesterol levels checked more often than once every 5 years if you are a type II diabetic.

4. Control and monitor blood pressure

   Know your numbers and how to control them. Here is a wonderful guide from the American Stroke Association that has many wonderful resources.

5. Tackle obesity

   This goes hand in hand with the exercise consistently bullet point above. Make sure to eat a balanced diet and to exercise consistently. While genetics play a role in how much weight you can lose or gain, a combination of exercise and healthy eating will lower your risk of having a stroke and other health problems.

6. Monitor cardiac problems with guidance from a healthcare professional

   If you believe that you have cardiac problems or have been diagnosed with one, please consult a licensed healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation. Some general guidelines are to exercise regularly and to eat a balanced diet.

7. Stop smoking

   If you need help quitting, consider joining a support group or depend on family and friends to keep you accountable. Addiction is very hard to combat, so do not be discouraged if quitting does not work the first time. It is beneficial not only for your chances of stroke, but also for avoiding a host of other health problems.

8. Avoid the excessive use of alcohol and drugs

   An excessive use of drugs, such as cocaine or methamphetamines, can greatly increase one's chances of having an aneurysm, which can lead to hemorrhagic stroke once it ruptures. Alcohol abuse can also increase risk of having a stroke. Please find a local support group or consult your doctor if you have any trouble with excessive use of these substances.

9. Proper nutrition

   Make sure to check out the "Nutrition" prevention page to learn more about how you can control your own health and lower your chances of having a stroke.