Stroke can happen to anyone

A stroke can happen with no obvious cause, to people of any age - but there are factors known to increase the likelihood of it happening. Some of these factors are things that can't be changed. Other risks may be reduced by lifestyle changes or medication.

What cannot be changed

Middle aged manSex
In people aged under 75, more men have strokes than women.

Age
Strokes are more common in people over 55, and the risk continues to rise with age. Arteries harden and become 'furred up' by a build-up of cholesterol and other debris (atherosclerosis) over many years.

Family history
Having a close relative who has had a stroke increases the risk, possibly because conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes tend to run in families.

Ethnic background
People from Asian, African and African-Caribbean communities are at greater risk of a stroke. Medical conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure are also more common in some races.

What the doctor can help with

Medical conditions
If they are not treated, over time these conditions may damage the arteries.

  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Heart disease and irregular heart beat (atrial fibrillation)
  • Diabetes


What we can do to help ourselves

Healthy foodDiet
A diet high in fatty foods causes cholesterol to build up in the blood and the arteries to narrow. Too much salt can lead to high blood pressure. Being very overweight (obese) puts extra strain on the heart.


Too much alcohol
Regular heavy drinking raises blood pressure. Binge drinking (drinking a lot of alcohol in a short time) can cause a blood vessel in the brain to burst.

Exercise
An inactive lifestyle can contribute to furring of the arteries. Regular exercise helps keep the heart and bloodstream healthy.

No smokingSmoking
Smoking causes higher blood pressure and makes the blood thicker. The chemicals in tobacco smoke are absorbed into the body, damaging blood vessel walls.

Reduce your risk:

  • Have your blood pressure checked regularly
  • Stop smoking
  • Take regular exercise
  • Avoid heavy drinking
  • Cut down on salt and fatty foods
  • Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables


Links
Audio - Lifestyle changes (3523 kb)
Brain attack
Types of stroke
Common symptoms
Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)
Damage to the brain
Common problems