How to Reduce the Risk of a Stroke

by Jody Perrecone

Strokes are the third leading cause of death in the United States.(Heart attacks are the leading cause of death, cancer is #2).  Like heart attacks, a stroke can happen without warning. About 25% of the people under the age of 70 who experience a stroke, do not survive their first attack. About 40% of stroke survivors need ongoing care.  Nearly 60% recover well enough to be able to care for themselves.

A stroke occurs when fatty plaques hidden in artery walls leading to the brain  suddenly rupture, causing a blood clot to form. Sometimes pieces of plaque break off and can cause an obstruction. In both cases, the artery becomes blocked and the affected area soon dies from a lack of oxygen. A stroke can also take place when high blood pressure forces blood through cracks in stiffened arteries, causing bleeding in the brain.

Most strokes are a result of high blood pressure.  People with high blood pressure are eight times more likely to have a stroke than people with normal blood pressure. 

However, most strokes are preventable.  Follow these guidelines to reduce your risk of a stroke:  don’t smoke, check your blood pressure regularly, reduce salt intake, maintain a healthy weight, eat foods that are low in fat and high in fiber and exercise regularly.  Learn more about these life saving lifestyle changes by enrolling in CHIP (Coronary Health Improvement Program).  Call 815-316-6361 for more information.

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