Knowing and Managing Your Risk Factors
A number of factors are linked to an increased risk for stroke . Some of these — such as being male , African American , Hispanic , or older than age 55 — are factors that you cannot change . Having heart disease or a prior TIA or stroke are also risk factors . Risk factors that you can manage include high blood pressure , diabetes , smoking , high blood cholesterol levels , and being overweight or inactive .
By changing some habits , having regular medical care , and following your doctor ’ s instructions , you can make changes to manage your risk factors . Knowing what to focus on is the first step .
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure ( hypertension ), or three readings higher than 130 / 80 , is the leading risk factor for stroke . High blood pressure can injure the lining of the blood vessel walls . This can lead to plaque buildup and / or bleeding in the vessels of the brain , both of which can cause a stroke .
If you have high blood pressure :
� Discuss your target blood pressure with your doctor .
� Take your medication as prescribed by your doctor .
� Keep your blood pressure checkups .
� Work on losing weight , being more active , or quitting smoking .
Diabetes
People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to have a stroke or heart disease . Diabetes affects all blood vessels , including those that supply the brain .
If you have diabetes :
� See your doctor regularly and discuss your target blood sugar values .
� Take medications as prescribed by your doctor .
� Make certain that you and your family understand your diet and care .
� Consult a dietitian or attend a diabetes class if you feel you need more guidance about your diet or diabetes care .
Resources :
� Mount Carmel Diabetes Self-Management Program 614-546-4582
� Central Ohio Diabetes Association 614-884-4400
� American Diabetes Association 800-342-2383 diabetes . org
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