Question

List five risk factors for stroke and explain how one can reduce or eliminate the risk associated with each factor. Provide an example of each risk factor.

Answer 1

Stroke is a focus episode of neurological deficit and brain tissue damage results in episode of brain dysfunction due to focal ischemia and hemorrhage.

Following are the risk factors:

1. Diabetes
2. Cholesterol level
3. Smoking
4. Hypertension
5. Age

1. Diabetes

• It is a chronic condition in which the body is unable to utilize blood sugar.
• High blood sugar level leads to the development of atherosclerosis which leads to stroke.
• Measures to reduce diabetes:
  • Visit the doctor regularly
  • Monitor blood sugar level regularly
  • Exercise regularly

2. Smoking

• Smoking can double the risk of stroke.
• The chemicals in cigarette smoke ( nicotine, carbon monoxide) accelerate the process of atherosclerosis ( narrowing of arteries).
• Clots are formed more likely because smoking bthickens the blood andbmake clotting factors sticky.
• Strategies to quit smoking:
  • Call the quitline or rehab for further advice
  • Visit your doctor for advice
  • Decide strategy.

3.Cholesterol level:

• Cholesterol is a fat like substance that is made by human body.
• It becomes a problem if level are high in blood
• It contribute to the formation of a substance called atheroma which stick to artery wall and leads to atherosclerosis.
• Measure to decrease cholesterol level:
  • Eat high fibre diet .
  • Check the blood pressure regularly
  • Reduce intake of saturated fat.

4. Hypertension:

• It is the most important factor.
• Normal is 120/80 mm of Hg
• High is when BP is above 140/90 mm of Hg
• It means that blood is exerting more pressure than the normal.
• With time , this weakens and damage blood vessel wall which can cause stroke.
• Strategies to decrease BP:
  • Check BP regularly
  • Exercise regularly
  • Choose a low fat , high fibre rich diet.
  • Stop smoking
  • Limit alcohol
  • Maintain a healthy weight for the height.
  • Take the medication for hypertension regularly.

4. Age :

• This is unmodifiable risk factor for stroke .
• Risk of stroke increases with age.