Stroke Risk Factors and Prevention
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either by a blood clot (ischemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). While strokes can happen suddenly, many risk factors are preventable through lifestyle changes and medical management. Understanding your risk factors and taking proactive steps to address them can significantly reduce your chances of experiencing a stroke.
At RWJBarnabas Health, we recognize that concerns about stroke risk can be overwhelming, especially if you have a family history or existing health conditions that increase your vulnerability. Our neurologists can assess your risk factors and develop personalized prevention strategies while providing compassionate care that considers your complete health picture. Let us partner with you to protect your brain health and help you maintain an active, healthy lifestyle.
Understanding Your Risk for Stroke
While a stroke can affect anyone at any time, certain factors increase your risk of experiencing one. Some risk factors can be managed through lifestyle changes and medical care, while others are beyond our control. Understanding both types of risk factors helps you and your healthcare team develop the most effective prevention strategy.
Types of Stroke Risk Factors and Causes
A stroke can happen suddenly with little warning. However, many of the risk factors for stroke are preventable. Improving your overall health can significantly reduce your risk of stroke. People with a family history of stroke should be especially careful about managing their risk.
Factors You Can Control
Many stroke risk factors can be modified or managed through lifestyle changes, regular medical care, and proper medication management. By addressing these factors, you can significantly reduce your stroke risk:
- Blood pressure management. If your blood pressure is high, ask your doctor about ways to lower it, such as exercise, weight loss, and medications. Check readings regularly and take medications as prescribed.
- Cholesterol management. Regularly check your cholesterol to monitor your health. Regular lipid panel checks are crucial. Maintain healthy levels through diet and medication. If you have high cholesterol, you can lower it by eating foods high in fiber, such as oatmeal, beans, and apples, and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and walnuts. Or, your doctor may prescribe medications to help lower it.
- Regular exercise. Engage in 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous activity weekly. Start slowly and build up gradually.
- Healthy diet. Follow a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit salt and saturated fats.
- Limited alcohol consumption. Follow American Heart Association guidelines—up to two drinks daily for men, one for women. Need help? Call our Access Center 24/7 at 1-800-300-0628.
- Quit smoking. Quit smoking or vaping through our Nicotine and Tobacco Recovery Program. Call 833-795-QUIT.
- Stress management. Practice regular stress management techniques. Consider meditation or counseling.
- Weight management. Maintain a healthy BMI through diet and exercise. Even small weight losses can reduce stroke risk.
- Medication adherence. Take all prescribed medications regularly, including blood thinners if recommended.
- Regular check-ups. Schedule routine visits with your healthcare provider to monitor risk factors.
Factors Beyond Your Control
While these risk factors cannot be changed, understanding them helps your healthcare team provide more targeted prevention strategies:
- Age. Risk increases significantly as you get older, especially after age 55. The risk doubles each decade after age 65.
- Gender. Women face unique stroke risks, particularly during pregnancy, while using birth control pills, post-menopause, and after age 75. Learn more about women's health by the decade.
- Family history. Having close relatives who experienced stroke or heart disease increases your risk, especially if they occurred before age 65.
- Previous stroke/TIA. Prior events significantly increase the risk of future strokes, with the highest risk in the first year after a stroke.
- Race and ethnicity. African Americans and Hispanic Americans face higher stroke risks than other groups, partly due to higher rates of high blood pressure and diabetes.
Prevention and Screening
Building a relationship with a primary care physician (PCP) is one of the best ways to maintain good health, manage chronic health conditions, and monitor and address risk factors for conditions such as stroke and heart disease.
Building a relationship with a PCP is crucial for:
- Regular health monitoring
- Risk factor management
- Early intervention
- Preventive care
Discover Preventive Stroke Care in New Jersey
Don't wait for symptoms to make healthy changes. Early detection and proactive management of risk factors are vital. Whether it's adopting a healthier diet, incorporating regular physical activity, moderating alcohol intake, or quitting smoking, each step you take is a stride toward preventing stroke.
Let us help you be proactive about your health.
Request an appointment with a primary care provider or call 888-724-7123 as a first step. If you are at high risk for a stroke, your provider may recommend that you see a neurology specialist.
At RWJBarnabas Health, we offer unparalleled neurological care, combining advanced technology with the region's top neurologists and surgeons. Our multidisciplinary team delivers comprehensive care focused on your health and wellness, making us a leader in stroke prevention and treatment in the tri-state area.