• A few simple lifestyle changes can cut your stroke risk: Healthy lifestyle change What to aim for How to make it happen* Eat healthy (good nutrition) as directed by your doctor Each day, try to eat: 7-10 servings of fruits and vegetables 6-8 servings of grains (with at least half of these from whole grain products) 2-3 servings of low-fat dairy products 2-3 servings of lean meat or meat alternatives (such as tofu) Don't eat too much sodium.

  • How do medical conditions increase stroke risk? The connection is simple - strokes can happen one of two ways: when a blood clot blocks blood flow to the brain (this causes 80% of strokes) when blood vessels burst in the brain Medical conditions that increase the risk of blood clots or bursting blood vessels will also increase your stroke risk.

  • Depending on your individual situation and medical conditions, your doctor may recommend that you take a variety of medication(s). Such medications include: blood-pressure-lowering medications) (for people with high blood pressure) blood thinners (for people with atrial fibrillation or those who have had a stroke or TIA) cholesterol-lowering medications (for people with high cholesterol) medications to control blood sugar levels (for people with diabetes) Click on the links above to learn more about the medications.

  • You may be wondering "Am I at risk for a stroke?" Find out by learning about stroke risk factors (things that increase your stroke risk).

Additional Resources