Risk factors
You can control some of your risk factors for having a stroke. These include maintaining normal blood pressure, not smoking, keeping blood sugar levels stable, lowering cholesterol, eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol use, avoiding drugs, and treating conditions like sleep apnea.
Risk factors you cannot control include age, sex, heredity (family history), and a prior history of stroke.
Learn the stroke warning signs : B.E.F.A.S.T
What is a TIA?
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is often called a “warning stroke.” It occurs when a blood clot temporarily blocks blood flow to the brain. The symptoms are similar to those of a stroke but usually last only a few minutes and resolve on their own.
Even though the symptoms go away, a TIA is a serious warning sign. About 1 in 8 strokes is preceded by a TIA, so it should never be ignored. If you or someone else experiences stroke symptoms—even if they go away—call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately
Stoke warning signs
- Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination Sudden severe headache with no known cause
