Stroke Risk Factors | What You Can and Can’t Control

A stroke can strike unexpectedly and often has life-altering consequences. However, strokes are largely preventable if you're aware of the risk factors and take proactive steps to manage them. It’s important to explore the common stroke risk factors, what they mean for you and how simple lifestyle changes can make a world of difference in preventing this potentially devastating event. Your health and peace of mind are worth the effort — let’s dive in and learn how you can protect yourself and your loved ones.

What is a Stroke?

Before discussing the risk factors, it’s helpful to understand what a stroke is. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Without prompt treatment, brain cells can die, leading to serious complications or death.

There are several types of strokes:

• Ischemic stroke: The most common type, caused by a blockage, such as a blood clot, that disrupts blood flow to the brain.

• Hemorrhagic stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel bursts, causing bleeding in or around the brain, which damages brain cells.

• Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): A temporary blockage of blood flow, often called a "mini-stroke." While symptoms may resolve, a TIA is a warning sign of a future stroke.

• Cryptogenic stroke: A stroke with no identifiable cause, making prevention more challenging.

• Brain stem stroke: Affects the brainstem, which controls vital functions like breathing and heartbeat, and may result in locked-in syndrome.

Recognizing stroke symptoms — such as sudden numbness, confusion or difficulty speaking — requires immediate medical attention. If you or a loved one experiences these signs, call 911 right away. At CommonSpirit - Memorial Hospital, we’re committed to providing lifesaving care and helping reduce future stroke risk.

Want to know your individual risk? Take our Stroke Risk Quiz 

Stroke Risk Factors You Can Control

The good news about stroke prevention? Many risk factors are well within your control. By making intentional lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk and protect your health. Here’s a closer look at the actionable steps you can take:

1. Quit smoking - Smoking doubles your stroke risk by raising blood pressure and reducing oxygen in your blood. Quitting may be challenging, but it’s entirely within your control. Seek support through programs, therapies, and the encouragement of friends and family. Every cigarette you avoid brings you closer to a healthier life.

2. Eat a heart-healthy diet - A nutritious diet helps lower blood pressure, manage cholesterol,  and maintain a healthy weight — all important for stroke prevention. Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while limiting unhealthy fats and sugars. Simple changes, like swapping chips for veggies or sugary drinks for water, can make a big difference.

3. Maintain a healthy weight - Excess weight puts strain on your heart and blood vessels, increasing stroke risk. Make small, sustainable changes to your diet and activity level. Even simple activities like walking or swimming can help keep your weight in check and lower your stroke risk.

4. Stay active - Exercise is key to reducing stroke risk. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week — just 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Brisk walking, cycling, or gardening can improve circulation and keep your heart and brain healthy.

5. Limit alcohol consumption - Excessive alcohol raises blood pressure and harms your brain health. Stick to one drink per day for women and two for men, and consider opting for non-alcoholic beverages when socializing.

6. Manage high blood pressure - High blood pressure is the leading cause of strokes, but it's manageable. Keep your blood pressure below 120/80 mmHg by reducing sodium, adding potassium-rich foods and taking prescribed medications if needed. Regular monitoring and action can save your life.

 7. Control diabetes - Uncontrolled diabetes increases stroke risk, but with healthy habits, it can be managed. Monitor your blood sugar, eat a balanced diet, and stay active to protect your heart, brain and overall health.

Factors You Cannot control

While there are many steps you can take to reduce your stroke risk, some factors are simply beyond your control. Understanding these risks can empower you to stay vigilant, prioritize regular check-ups and take action where you can.

1. Age - Stroke risk increases with age, especially after 55, doubling every decade. As we age, blood vessels can weaken or narrow, raising the risk of blockages. While you can't stop aging, a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate age-related risks.

2. Family history - A family history of stroke can increase your genetic predisposition. Hereditary factors like high blood pressure or clotting disorders can elevate your risk. Share your family history with your doctor for early detection and tailored prevention.

3. Race and ethnicity - Certain racial and ethnic groups, including African Americans, Hispanics, and Asian Americans, face a higher stroke risk due to higher rates of conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. Knowing your risks allows for more proactive care.

4. Gender - Men are more likely to have strokes, but women tend to experience more severe outcomes. Women should be cautious during pregnancy, menopause, or when using hormonal contraceptives, as these can increase stroke risk.

5. Prior stroke, TIA or heart attack - A history of stroke, TIA or heart attack increases the risk of another stroke. These events often point to underlying issues, such as blocked arteries, that require ongoing management with your health care provider.

Medical Conditions that Raise Your Risk

Certain medical conditions can increase your risk of stroke, often by affecting your blood flow or overall cardiovascular health. If you’re managing one or more of these conditions, it’s essential to work with your healthcare provider to keep them under control and minimize your risk.

1. High cholesterol - Excess cholesterol can build up in the arteries, leading to blockages that reduce blood flow to the brain. Work with your doctor to manage cholesterol through a heart-healthy diet, exercise and medication if needed.

2. Heart disease - Heart disease, including coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure, can disrupt blood flow, making it easier for clots to form, which can increase stroke risk. Treating underlying heart conditions is key to reducing your risk.

3. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) - OSA, a condition that causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, is linked to high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation, both of which increase stroke risk. Treatments like continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy can help manage OSA.

4. Sickle cell disease - This inherited blood disorder increases stroke risk, especially in children, by causing blood clots and poor blood flow to the brain. Regular medical care and appropriate treatments can help reduce risks.

Take Charge of Your Health

Take the next steps to understand and manage your stroke risk. Start by assessing your personal risk with our stroke risk quiz. Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider at CommonSpirit Medical Group to discuss personalized prevention strategies.