Lifestyle changes
In most cases it’s possible to significantly reduce your risk of having a stroke by making lifestyle changes. This would include factors such as eating a healthy diet – a low-fat, low-salt, high-fibre diet is usually recommended, with plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grains. You should also exercise regularly as this can help lower your cholesterol level and keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. Try also stopping smoking if you smoke, and cutting down on the amount of alcohol you drink. Whilst it is recommended that you take regular exercise, you should seek advice from your GP first whether you can. If you don’t feel able to exercise, don't do it.
Reduce your risk of further strokes
The risk of you having further strokes increases if you have had a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or a Stroke. There are risk factors that you can not control such as your ethnicity or your age. There are some actions you can take that will help:
Have regular health check-ups
We advise regular check-ups with your GP or Community Pharmacist to monitor existing conditions such as those mentioned below. They can also advise on new conditions.
Blood Pressure - Some pharmacies or your GP surgery may be able to monitor your blood pressure. Or you can buy a blood pressure machine so that you can do this yourself.
Cholesterol - Can be checked in some pharmacies or at your GP surgery.
Diabetes - Your GP may test if they feel you are at risk or showing signs of developing diabetes. If you are already diagnosed, your community team can help you to monitor it.
Atrial Fibrillation (AF) - Following your stroke, your consultant may refer you to the Cardiology Department. This is to get a heart monitor to detect if you have AF. If you are already diagnosed, your GP should monitor you and the medication you are prescribed.
Risk factors that you can't change
Age
People over 65 are most at risk of having strokes, although they can happen at any age – including in children
Family history
If a close relative (parent, grandparent, brother or sister) has had a stroke, your risk is likely to be higher
Ethnicity
If you’re south Asian, African or Caribbean, your risk of stroke is higher, partly because rates of diabetes and high blood pressure are higher in these groups
Your medical history
If you’ve had a stroke, transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or heart attack, your risk of stroke is higher
Useful information and links
