How to Prevent a Stroke

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If you have had a stroke, there is a 20 per cent chance you could have another one. However, the following keys could help prevent a secondary attack. If you've never had a stroke, these keys will reduce your risk of having one.

• Stay active

• Regular physical activity is key to reducing the risk of stroke and heart attacks. It reduces high blood pressure and raises levels of "good" cholesterol.

• Canadians should accumulate 30 minutes or more of moderate intensity aerobic physical activity everyday, such as walking, running, swimming, or cycling.

• Eat a balanced diet

• Improve your cardiovascular health by choosing whole grain breads, plenty of fruits and veggies, and limiting your salt intake. Avoid food with saturated fat.

• Lower your blood pressure

• Eat a healthy diet and be physically active on a regular basis.

• Have your blood pressure checked regularly.
  • If you have high blood pressure and are prescribed blood pressure-lowering medications, take them exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

• Be smoke-free

• Smoking contributes to narrowing and hardening of the arteries, increasing blood pressure and making it harder for oxygen to get to the lungs.

• Within 5 to 15 years of becoming smoke-free, your stroke risk will be the same as someone who never smoked. If you are a non-smoker, avoid second-hand smoke.

• Reduce stress

• Stress may make it difficult for you to maintain healthy lifestyle choices such as exercise and eating a healthy diet. It may also increase blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

• You can't eliminate all the stress from your life, but be aware of what makes you feel stressed, so that you could develop healthy ways to cope with it.

Source: Canadian Stroke Network