You may pat yourself on the back when you experience a stroke of luck or a stroke of genius. But the type of stroke that attacks the brain is one you want to take strides to avoid.

There are many myths associated with strokes, such as “They only happen to the elderly” or “They can’t be prevented.” In reality, strokes can affect people of all ages, genders and ethnicities. Preventing a stroke is similar to preventing other health conditions, including cancer and diabetes.
It takes planning, attention to lifestyle and an understanding of the risk factors.

Be Stroke Savvy

A stroke isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. There are many forms, ranging from mild to severe. The two most common types of stroke are ischemic and hemorrhagic. An ischemic stroke occurs when there’s a blockage (a clot or narrow artery) that restricts blood flow to the brain.
The second type – a hemorrhagic stroke – is caused by bleeding in the brain due to a broken blood vessel.

Being aware of the risk factors and how to control them is the first step in preventing a stroke from happening. Certain risk factors, such as your age, family history, gender and having had a prior stroke, are out of your control. But others are within your power to change:

• High blood pressure is at the top of the list of controllable risk factors. It’s typically associated with heart disease, but it’s a major cause of stroke. Get high blood pressure in check, and you may reduce your risk for a variety of health problems.
• Smoking cigarettes has a negative affect on the body. It increases blood pressure and encourages blood to clot.
• Diabetes patients may experience high blood pressure, and the condition itself can harm the blood vessels in the brain over time.
• Heart arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation, can cause blood clots. If a clot travels through the bloodstream to the brain, a stroke may occur.

Lifestyle Changes Are Key

To keep yourself in optimum health and to help prevent a stroke, begin with smart lifestyle habits. Eat well and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight. And if you smoke, get the support you need to quit.
You’ll help lower your blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels – giving your brain and the rest of your body more health benefits and nutrients to keep stroke at bay.

Learn about risk factors for stroke.

Know Stroke’s Warning Signs

A stroke can happen without warning. Knowing the symptoms may help save someone’s life:

• Numbness or weakness in the face, arm or on one side of the body. Asking the person to smile or raise their arms can help determine if he or she is having a stroke.
• Blurred vision.
• Confusion or trouble speaking.
• Dizziness and loss of balance.
• Severe headache.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a stroke, call 911 immediately. The quicker treatment can begin, the better the survival rate.