Stroke Prevention Tips That Can Save Your Life

May is American Stroke Month. Now is the time to make important changes for your health and life.  Stroke is a leading cause of permanent disability and death in the United States, killing more than 130,000 people every year. Stroke is almost as common as heart attack; strokes leave many individuals unable to speak or move. Stroke can also impact memory. The good news is that over 80% of strokes are preventable. Through lifestyle changes and education, you can reduce your risk of stroke. Here are the most important stroke prevention tips.



Lower Your Blood Pressure

Research has shown that high blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke. Have you ever wondered why? Over time, high blood pressure damages your arteries by increasing the amount of pressure on your artery walls. This increased pressure can cause arteries to narrow or function less efficiently. Individuals with high blood pressure have a greater change of a clogged artery or slowed blood flow. The majority of strokes are ischemic strokes, which means they occur when an artery leading to the brain temporarily loses blood flow due to a clog. Damaged arteries, often a result of high blood pressure, increase the risk of suffering a stroke. Talk with your doctor about a safe plan for lowering your blood pressure to acceptable levels. This is the most important step you can take in stroke prevention.  Whether it’s through diet, lifestyle or medication, a lower blood pressure can reduce your risk of stroke.

Lose Weight

Obesity has a strong link to an increased risk of stroke in both men and women. According to the Obesity Action Coalition, obesity and excess fatty tissue can lead to increased inflammation. In turn, increased inflammation can compromise blood flow. It can also contribute to blocked arteries. Obesity, especially coupled with a high waist circumference (35 inches or more for women; 40 inches or more men), is a key indicator of increased risk for stroke. Obesity also increases the risk for diabetes, which is another risk factor for stroke.

Exercise More

Physical activity is an important lifestyle change for many reasons–especially for seniors. Increased physical activity can improve your heart health, lower your blood pressure, and provide increased balance and endurance. Exercise has also been shown to reduce the risk of stroke. For both men and women, engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate activity per day can significantly decrease the risk of cerebral infarction (stroke). For seniors, at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week can help lower the risk of stroke and improve other health markers, as well. Talk to your doctor about your own personal risk of stroke or blood clot–and work together to create a stroke prevention plan that works for you.  Have more questions about senior health? Check our blog for regular updates!