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Stroke : Are You At Risk? |
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There are many factors that increase your risk of stroke:
- high blood pressure
- heart disease
- cigarette smoking
- transient ischemic attacks (which are mini-strokes)
- a high red blood cell count
- cocaine abuse
- being male
- being diabetic
- having had a prior stroke
- stroke in blood relatives and
- having evidence of obstruction or clot in one of the neck vessels (carotid occlusion)
High blood pressure is the most important risk factor for stroke. Since this affects one in every four adults, in the western world, it is a very common problem. Control of high blood pressure reduces the risk of stroke. Often blood pressure can be controlled simply by eating a healthier diet and maintaining proper weight. Drugs to control blood pressure are also available. Many people think the reason the death rate from stroke has declined over the past decade is due to better control of high blood pressure. Heart disease increases the risk of stroke. Persons with abnormal heart rhythms or a heart attack have a higher chance of stroke. These people should carefully follow the advice of their doctor. Smoking increases the risk of stroke. Smoking also increases the effects of other risks, such as high blood pressure. Persons who smoke should stop. Article #6164 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
