How To Reduce Risk Of Stroke

You can protect against stroke. That's fine, given every 45 seconds, someone in the U.S. has one. It kills 160,000 people annually, mostly women, annually, about 40,000 more women than men have strokes and more than 60 percent of all deaths from stroke occur in women.

It is important to know the risk factors, some of which are preventable and controllable, and to recognize the symptoms so many serious side effects can be avoided.

Blood pressure: According to the American Heart Association, high blood pressure is the number one controllable risk factors for stroke. Family history and the obesity factor in the development of hypertension and women who take birth control pills or have reached menopause are at greater risk. A healthy lifestyle helps, but for many, medications are needed.

Cholesterol: High levels of 'bad' low density lipoprotein (LDL) increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, high levels of 'good' high density lipoprotein (HDL) is smaller. Studies show women's cholesterol is higher than men 45 years of age and that low levels of HDL seem to be a stronger risk factor for women.

Diabetes: Diabetes is associated with high blood pressure and interferes with the ability to dissolve clots, increasing the risk of ischemic stroke. Lifestyle changes and medications can help.

Diet and Exercise: Thirty minutes of moderate activity a day-to-vigorous physical can help prevent heart disease and blood vessels and control blood cholesterol, diabetes and obesity, and blood pressure. People with excess body fat, especially around the waist, are more likely to develop heart disease and stroke. Eat healthy foods low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium.

Smoking and drinking alcohol: Smokers and people exposed to smoke during the day are at increased risk of stroke. Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to hypertension.

Symptoms of stroke: It is essential to recognize stroke symptoms and seek help immediately. Time is crucial when it comes to prevention and long-term debilitating effects. Symptoms include sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body, sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding, sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, or sudden severe headache with no known cause.