From an interview with
Dr. Ravish Kothari, Neurologist
MRMC – McLeod Inpatient Physicians

For stroke survivors, preventing another stroke is a key concern. There are 750,000 Americans who experience a stroke each year. Between five to 14 percent will have a second stroke within one year, according to the American Stroke Association.

When it comes to stroke, there are risk factors you can control and those you cannot.

Risk factors you cannot change include:

• Age–the older you are, the higher the risk
• Male
• African American
• Family history of a stroke
• Blood Pressure

For controllable risk factors, by making simple lifestyle changes, you may be able to reduce your risk of a first or recurrent stroke.

Blood Pressure 

High blood pressure is one of the most important and easily controlled risk factors. Many people are not even aware they have high blood pressure, so it is vital to have it checked at least once a year as part of your annual wellness visit with your primary care physician.

Sometimes blood pressure can be controlled through diet and exercise. Walking, bike riding, swimming, or even light yard work can make a difference. Plan for some form of physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day, five or more days a week. Be sure to check with your primary care physician before starting any exercise routine.

Medicine may be needed if diet and exercise alone are not enough to control high blood pressure. You may have to try several before finding the one that works for you. This is common. Take blood pressure medications as directed and exactly as prescribed.

High Cholesterol

The body needs cholesterol, but too much can be a problem. The liver makes all the cholesterol the body needs, and the excess comes from the foods you eat. Foods high in saturated and trans fats cause the liver to make more cholesterol than it otherwise would.

Work with your physician to make sure your cholesterol is at a healthy level. Changes in diet and exercise can help improve levels, but medications may also be needed. There are several medications available that help lower cholesterol levels.

Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial Fibrillation is a heart condition where the upper chamber of the heart beats irregularly. This can cause blood to pool and form clots. If a blood clot does form, it can travel through an artery to the brain and cause a stroke. People with untreated atrial fibrillation may be at greater risk for stroke.

Medications like anticoagulants also known as blood thinners can reduce the risk of blood clots that could lead to stroke.

Smoking

The more you smoke, the greater the risk of stroke. Someone who smokes 20 cigarettes a day is six times more likely to have a stroke compared to a non-smoker. Smoking makes the heart beat faster and raises blood pressure, which increases the risk of stroke. Work with your physician for help in quitting smoking.

Nutrition

Eating healthy helps you manage weight and blood pressure, which are crucial in preventing a stroke. To improve your health:

• Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
• Choose foods low in saturated and trans fats.
• Avoid excess sugar, which provides only empty calories.
• Avoid excess sodium, which increases the risk of high blood pressure.

To learn more, speak with a primary care physician near you.