A group of nations leading experts called the National Stroke Association’s Stroke Prevention Advisory Board has established some guidelines for the prevention of stroke. These guidelines are published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (1999), and they were updated to show recent medical standards. These guidelines will help to understand how the risk of stroke may be lowered:

Know Your Blood Pressure 

One of the biggest risk factors for stroke is untreated elevated blood pressure. If someone has high blood pressure, it should be controlled. Blood pressure should be checked annually by your doctor or health care professional. 

Atrial Fibrillation (Afib) Identification

Afib is identified as an irregular heartbeat that may increase the risk of stroke by 500 percent. Afib causes pooling of blood within the heart. This could cause clots to form and trigger a stroke. A diagnosis of Afib must be treated by a doctor.

Discontinue Smoking

Smoking will double the chances of getting a stroke. It will damage the walls of the blood vessels and clog arteries. This will elevate the blood pressure putting undue stress on the heart.

Control Alcohol Consumption

Many studies show that alcohol use is linked to stroke. Doctors advise not to drink or to only drink in moderation by limiting alcohol consumption to two drinks daily.

Identify Cholesterol Level

Cholesterol is made in the body. It is defined as a fatty-like substance that is also present in food. Elevated levels of cholesterol in the bloodstream may clog arteries. This may lead to a stroke. Consult with a physician if cholesterol levels are in excess of 200.

Controlling Diabetes

Most people who suffer with diabetes experience health problems which may be risk factors for stroke. Dietitians and doctors can help with the management of diabetes to lessen these risks.

Exercise and Watch Your Diet

Being overweight cause the circulatory system to be stressed. It is advisable to exercise at least five times per week. Lowering calories, sodium, trans-fats, saturated fat and cholesterol in the diet must be maintained. It is recommended to eat fruits as well as vegetables, (5 servings) daily.

Treating circulation problems

Sometimes fatty deposits may plug up arteries which supply the brain with blood. This can cause a stroke. Other diseases like sickle cell or acute anemia must be attended to by a physician.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

TIA is defined as an episode that is temporary and has symptoms resembling a stroke that may last for several minutes up to 24 hours. These occurrences rarely cause any damage. TIA has the same symptoms as a stroke. Identifying and treating TIA will reduce the risk of stroke. It is believed that as many as 40 of people that have a TIA may experience a stroke.

It is important to know these guidelines and recognize where changes should be made. By following these guidelines, the risk of having a stroke will be greatly reduced.