What you can control

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People with more than one risk factor have what is called "amplification of risk." This means that multiple risk factors compound their effects and create an overall risk greater than the simple effect of the individual risk factors. So, the more lifestyle factors you can manage successfully, the greater your chances of reducing your risk of stroke.

High blood pressure - Of all the risk factors that contribute to stroke, the most powerful is hypertension. People with high blood pressure have stroke risk four to six times higher than those without the condition. Recent studies show that treatment of hypertension with medication can reduce the stroke incidence by 38 percent. Many people believe that treatment of high blood pressure has reduced the death rate for stroke in the United States for decades but a trend upward recently may be because people don't take their medication when they should.

In addition to medication, there are many things you can do to manage high blood pressure.

Heart disease - After high blood pressure, the second most powerful risk factor for stroke is heart disease. People with heart disease have twice the risk of stroke as those without the condition. There are many things you can do to manage heart disease. A healthy diet, exercise, and low cholesterol all contribute to a healthy heart.
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Atrial fibrillation - This is an irregular heartbeat that changes heart function and allows blood to collect in the chambers of the heart. If the pooled blood clots, it can move into your blood stream and cause a stroke. Your doctor can diagnose atrial fibrillation with an ECG. Blood thinners may be prescribed to lower your stroke risk.

High cholesterol levels - Most people think high cholesterol contributes to heart disease, but they don't realize that it also raises stroke risk. Research has shown that the danger comes from dietary intake of foods that contain high levels of cholesterol such as meats, eggs and dairy products.

This contributes to the risk of atherosclerosis and thicker arteries. This plaque can block blood vessels and contribute to the formation of clots. Having a high level of the "good cholesterol," called HDL, can reduce risk of stroke while low levels (less than 35 mg.dL) can lead to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
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Smoking - If you stop smoking today, your risk of stroke will begin to drop now. Smoking almost doubles a person's risk of stroke, independent of any other risk factors. Here's How to Quit

Alcohol - Some studies indicate that there is a relationship between drinking too much and stroke. However, recent studies indicate that drinking a modest amount of alcohol (one 4 oz. glass of wine or the alcohol equivalent) may protect against stroke.

Sources for this report include the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke and Consumer Guide No. #16 AHQR pub. no. 95-0664 US Agency For Healthcare Research and Quality.