There are several medical conditions that increase your risk for stroke. Becoming aware of these conditions could help you prevent a stroke from occurring.

Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA’s) – These occur when a blood vessel in or leading to the brain is temporarily blocked, but no permanent damage occurs. Lasting less than 24 hours, TIA’s produce the same signs and symptoms as stroke. It is important to recognize a TIA as a serious warning that a stroke may occur. Seek medical attention right away should you have one of these attacks.

Atrial Fibrillation – The chambers in a healthy heart contract regularly, pumping blood evenly throughout the body. When the upper chambers of the heart quiver instead of contract (atrial fibrillation), blood pools, possibly forming clots. If these clots travel to the brain a stroke can occur. Those with atrial fibrillation left untreated are 5 times more likely to have a stroke. If you have this condition, talk with your doctor about how best to treat it.

Carotid Artery Disease – This occurs as a result of plaque build-up in and narrowing (stenosis) of the carotid arteries in the neck. This prevents oxygen from being able to get to the brain, causing TIA or stroke.

High Blood Pressure – This is the most important risk factor for stroke. The systolic pressure (top number) represents the force of blood against the vessels as the heart beats. The diastolic pressure (bottom number) represents the force of blood against the vessels in between the beats. Ideally, blood pressure should be less than 120/80. A consistent reading above this number might signify a need for blood pressure medication.

Diabetes – A fasting blood sugar level of 126 mg/dl on two separate occasions signifies diabetes. Over an extended period of time these high blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels. Those with diabetes either cannot make enough insulin or their body cannot utilize the insulin it has. With the help of a physician, one can manage their diabetes with diet, exercise and/or medication.

High Cholesterol – Produced by the liver, cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the blood. Excess amounts of cholesterol can cause plaque to form on the walls of the arteries. This in turn results in narrowed arteries and deprivation of blood and oxygen to other parts of the body and the brain. The risk for a heart attack is higher if the plaque is in an artery leading to the heart. The risk for stroke is higher when the plaque is in an artery leading to the brain. Daily activity, healthy eating and sometimes medications prescribed by a physician can help improve cholesterol levels.

Smoking – Over time, the nicotine in cigarettes causes damage to blood vessels, cells and lung tissue, increasing the risk for various health problems, including: stroke, heart attack, cancer, lung disease and high blood pressure. Because of the addictive nature of nicotine, it can be difficult to quit smoking. Medications, group counseling and smoking cessation hotlines can all help one ease off of cigarettes.

Physical Inactivity or Obesity – Exercise helps reduce weight, lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels and can help raise healthy cholesterol levels. This results in a decreased risk for stroke and heart attack.