Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability globally, making it a condition many fear. It occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, either by a blockage or a rupture in blood vessels.

Though it sounds alarming, stroke can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle and good habits. So, what steps can you take to lower your stroke risk? Read on for the answer.

How to Reduce the Risks of Stroke

Healthy Foods and Drinks Consumption

The first step in reducing stroke risk is to pay attention to your diet. A balanced diet plays a vital role in maintaining healthy blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and body weight—three key factors in stroke prevention.

Make it a habit to eat a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. On the other hand, avoid foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol, such as fried foods, fast food, and processed products.

Maintain Ideal Body Weight

Carrying excess weight can lead to increased blood pressure, higher cholesterol, and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. Extra weight also places additional strain on the heart and blood vessels, which, if left unchecked, can cause long-term cardiovascular damage.

Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity not only helps keep body weight in check but also boosts circulation, reduces bad cholesterol, increases good cholesterol, and helps lower blood pressure.

Experts recommend adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, such as cycling, swimming, or brisk walking.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for stroke and heart disease. The harmful chemicals in cigarettes can damage blood vessel walls, increase blood pressure, and accelerate the narrowing and hardening of arteries.

If you don’t smoke, keep up the good habit. For active smokers, quitting is the most effective way to protect your health and others.

Manage Health Conditions

Conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, and diabetes can significantly raise stroke risk if not properly managed. If you have any of these conditions, regular check-ups with your doctor are essential to help reduce the risk of stroke.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle and following your doctor’s advice, including taking prescribed medications, can help manage these conditions effectively.

Be Aware of Stroke Symptoms

Stroke typically strikes suddenly, but it can also develop gradually over hours or even days. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Sudden dizziness

• Loss of balance or trouble walking

• Sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, or understanding others

• Visual disturbances

• Sudden tingling or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body

• Severe headaches that come on suddenly, with no apparent cause

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately at the nearest hospital.

Recognizing the symptoms of stroke and adopting a healthy lifestyle are critical steps to preventing severe consequences. Don’t hesitate to consult a doctor if you notice stroke symptoms. You can also use the health consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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