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Stroke Prevention

• Know your blood pressure. If it is elevated, work with your doctor to keep it under control. High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke. According to the CDC, 80% of strokes could be prevented by controlling blood pressure.
• Find out if you have atrial fibrillation (AF). If you do, work with your doctor to manage it. Atrial fibrillation can cause blood to collect in your heart's chambers and form clots.
• If you smoke, stop. Smoking doubles the risk for stroke. If you stop smoking today, your risk for stroke will begin to decrease. Learn about UMMC’s smoking cessation program.
• Do not use recreational or street drugs. These can increase your risk for stroke. For more information and resources about how to quit, visit our Addiction Psychiatry page.
• If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Alcohol is a drug. It can interact with other drugs you are taking and is harmful if taken in large doses.
• Know your cholesterol number. The CDC advises that your health care provider tests your cholesterol levels at least once every five years. If it is high, work with your doctor to control it. High cholesterol increases stroke risk by putting you at greater risk of heart disease, an important stroke risk factor. Cholesterol levels often can be controlled with diet and exercise; some people may require medication.
• Control your diabetes. Follow your doctor's recommendations carefully because diabetes puts you at an increased risk for stroke. Your physician may prescribe a nutrition program, lifestyle changes and medication.
• Include exercise in your daily routine. A brisk walk, swim or other exercise for as little as 30 minutes a day can improve your health in many ways while reducing your risk for stroke.
• Enjoy a diet with less sodium (salt) and fat. By cutting down on sodium and fat, you may lower blood pressure and your risk for stroke.
• Ask if you have circulation problems. If your doctor determines that you do, work to control them. Fatty deposits can block arteries that carry blood from your heart to your brain. Sickle cell disease, severe anemia or other diseases can cause stroke if untreated.
• If you have any stroke symptoms, call 911 for immediate medical attention.