Slurred or abnormal speech.
T — Time
Seek emergency help immediately.
Do not wait for several symptoms to appear.
One sudden neurological symptom can be enough to justify emergency evaluation.
9 Ways to Lower Your Risk of Stroke
Many strokes are linked to risk factors that can be treated or managed.
Control Your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is one of the most important modifiable stroke risk factors.
If you have hypertension:
Take prescribed medication consistently
Monitor blood pressure if advised
Reduce excess sodium
Stay physically active
Attend regular medical checkups
Do not stop blood-pressure medication simply because you feel well.
Manage Diabetes
Persistently high blood sugar
can damage blood vessels and increase cardiovascular risk.
If you have diabetes:
Follow your treatment plan
Monitor glucose as recommended
Keep regular medical appointments
Manage blood pressure and cholesterol as well
Stroke prevention
often depends on controlling several risk factors together.
Treat High Cholesterol
High LDL cholesterol can contribute to plaque buildup inside arteries.
Depending on your overall cardiovascular risk, treatment may include:
Dietary changes
Exercise
Weight management
Cholesterol-lowering medication
Do not stop statins or other prescribed treatments without medical advice.
Do Not Smoke
Smoking damages blood vessels,
increases clotting tendency, and raises stroke risk.
Stopping smoking is one of the most effective cardiovascular changes a person can make. If quitting is difficult, structured support, nicotine replacement, or medication may help.
Stay Physically Active
