Is there a genetic factor to strokes?

Having a stroke can be a difficult time in anyone’s life. While it is not always easy to determine just what may cause someone to suffer a devastating stroke, experts believe there is a genetic component regarding the risk factors that can lead to this medical event. The following is an overview of how you can reduce your risk of suffering a serious stroke.

High Blood Pressure Can Lead to Stroke

Many people have a family history of hypertension which is also known as high blood pressure. If anyone in your immediate family has this condition, it can raise your risk of suffering strokes or life-threatening blood clots.

Obesity Can Lead to Stroke

Being overweight can also raise your risk of heart related problems. If you have a family history of obesity, you can reduce your risk by taking steps to lose weight and keep it within normal limits.

High Blood Cholesterol

High cholesterol can be hereditary and a precursor to strokes. If you have not had a recent cholesterol screening, now is the time to do it so you can take steps to reduce it if necessary. High cholesterol can cause blood to thicken and lead to blood clots as well as strokes.

Stroke and Effects of Diabetes

If you have diabetes, you know how important it is to eat a healthy diet. Keeping your blood sugar steady will enhance your health and keep the risk of heart attacks, strokes and blood clots at bay.

Lifestyle Choices Impact Likelihood of Stroke

There are some lifestyle choices that can raise your risk of having serious strokes. Some things you can do now to prevent health problems are:

• Quit Smoking
• Eat A Healthy Diet
• Exercise Most Days Of The Week
• Lose Weight

Stroke Risk Factors

There are certain things that increase your risk of strokes. Some of these risk factors include:

• Being Over 55 Years Old
• Having A Family History Of Strokes
• Being A Woman
• Being African American
• Having A History Of Prior Strokes

If you have a family history of strokes, it is important to schedule regular physicals and checkups with your physician to determine how you can reduce your risk of suffering one yourself. This is especially important if you have had strokes previously, as this may increase your risk significantly. Taking the time to eat right, see your doctor and exercise can help reduce your risk of strokes even if you have a family history of the condition.