STROKE: RISK FACTORS AND PREVENTION
A stroke occurs when an artery in
your brain is blocked or leaks. This causes the oxygen-deprived brain cells to
begin dying within minutes. During a stroke, you feel sudden numbness and
confusion or have trouble walking and seeing. If left untreated, a stroke can
cause long-term disability.
In fact, strokes are the leading cause Trusted Source of
long-term disabilities. People who receive treatment within 3 hours of having a
stroke are less likely to have disabilities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source reports
that 93 percent of people knew sudden numbness on one side was a stroke
symptom. But only 38 percent knew all the symptoms that would prompt them to
seek emergency care.
Risk factors and
prevention
Risk factors for stroke include:
- high blood pressure
- family history of stroke
- smoking, especially when
combined with oral contraceptives
- being African-American
- being female
Some risk factors of strokes can be
reduced with preventative care, medications, and lifestyle changes. In general,
good health habits can lower your risk.
Stroke prevention methods may include
controlling high blood pressure with medications or surgery. You should also
maintain a healthy lifestyle, complete with regular exercise and a healthy diet
that’s low in sodium. Avoid smoking, and drink only in moderation, as these
activities increase your risk of stroke.
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