Strokes: Reducing the Risk

Strokes, also called cerebrovascular accidents, or apoplexy, are the third leading cause of death in the United States.  A stroke can be caused by lack of blood (and therefore lack of oxygen) to the brain, usually due to either atherosclerosis or rupture of a blood vessel in the brain. In either case, the end result is brain damage (and possibly death).

Here’s what to do to reduce the risk of a stroke:

• Control your blood pressure.  Have it checked regularly and, if necessary, take medication precribed by your physician.
• Reduce blood levels of cholesterol to below 200 milligrams per deciliter (measured by a blood test).
• Get regular exercise.
• Keep your weight down.
• Don’t smoke.
• Keep blood sugar levels under control if you’re diabetic.
• Avoid taking oral contraceptive pills.
• Learn to manage stress.

Used with permission from A Year of Health Hints by Don R Powell, PHD and the American Institute for Preventive Medicine, copyright 2010. www.healthylife.com