Stroke Risk Factors

Stroke Risk Factors

Am I at risk for a stroke?

Anyone can have a stroke no matter your age, race or gender. But, the chances of having a stroke increase if a person has certain risk factors, or criteria that can cause a stroke. The good news is that up to 80 percent of strokes can be prevented, and the best way to protect yourself and loved ones from stroke is to understand personal risk and how to manage it.

There are 2 types of risk factors for stroke: controllable and uncontrollable. Controllable risk factors generally fall into two categories: lifestyle risk factors or medical risk factors. Lifestyle risk factors can often be changed, while medical risk factors can usually be treated. Both types can be managed best by working with a doctor, who can prescribe medications and advise on how to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Uncontrollable risk factors include being over age 55, being male, being African American, Hispanic or Asian/Pacific Islander, or having a family history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).

Controllable Risk Factors:

• High Blood Pressure   (this one is me that I am working on)
• Atrial Fibrillation
• High Cholesterol     (this one is way under control)
• Diabetes
• Tobacco Use and Smoking      (quit years ago)   
• Alcohol Use      (pretty much never now a days)
• Physical Inactivity       (improving this one)
• Obesity          (hey lost 7.9 lbs the last two weeks)

Uncontrollable Risk Factors:

• Age
• Gender
• Race
• Family History
• Previous Stroke or TIA   (this one is now me)
• Fibromuscular Dysplasia
• Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO or Hole in the Heart)  (this one is also me)

To become more familiar with your personal risk for stroke, National Stroke Association developed an easy-to-use tool called a Stroke Risk Scorecard. The Scorecard provides an idea of a person's stroke risk. Once the scorecard is completed, discuss the results with a doctor, who will help assess the risk factors and help manage and/or treat any controllable risk factors. Remember: It is important to always take medications as a doctor prescribes to stay on top of stroke prevention.