Most strokes are caused by a blood clot that restricts blood flow to the brain. The onset of symptoms is sudden and requires emergency care. While you can’t do anything about risk factors, such as having a family history of stroke or being 55 and older or female, you can address your modifiable risk factors for stroke.

In fact, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute states that up to 90% of all strokes are caused by factors under your control. Here are some of the most common causes of stroke you can affect.

High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

High blood pressure puts arteries and blood vessels under excessive stress. Over time, this stress damages blood vessels, making it easier for fat, cholesterol and other substances (plaque) to stick to the artery walls.

When plaque sticks to the arteries leading to your brain, blood flow decreases. Then you’re at a higher risk of stroke.

To manage these modifiable risk factors for stroke, take these steps:

• Follow a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, and limit salt, sugar, and red or processed meats.
• Get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week.
• Work with your healthcare provider to monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol. If needed, take medication to obtain or maintain healthy levels.

Chronic Disease Management

You’re more likely to have a stroke if you have:

• Diabetes
• Genetic disorders, including sickle cell disease
• Heart disease, such as atrial fibrillation or coronary artery disease
• Personal history of stroke or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)

To manage your risk for stroke and TIAs, follow the same tips for lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. If your provider gives you a prescription, take your medication as prescribed. Talk to your provider if you notice changes in your health. Changing treatment may help you better manage your condition and reduce your risk factors for stroke.

Lifestyle Choices Are Also Modifiable Stroke Risk Factors

Most modifiable risk factors for stroke are part of your daily routine. Changing your habits can help cut your stroke risk and improve your overall health.

Choices that reduce your risk for stroke include:

• Limiting alcohol. Women should have no more than one alcoholic drink a day, and men no more than two. You may want to avoid alcohol altogether. New research published in the journal Hypertension states that drinking one alcoholic drink increases your blood pressure. Talk to your provider to make the best decision for your good health.
• Saying no. Cocaine and other illegal drugs have many negative effects on your mind and body. One negative effect is an increased risk of stroke.
• Getting off the couch. If you spend most of your time sitting down, you raise your risk of becoming overweight or obese. You may also have high blood pressure or cholesterol, diabetes, and other stroke risk factors.
• Quitting smoking. Cigarette smoking hurts your blood vessels and heart and increases your blood pressure. Secondhand smoke is also dangerous, as it, too, increases your stroke risk. Reducing stroke risk is just one benefit of quitting.