Many strokes are fatal. You can best prevent a stroke by keeping risk factors under control. Have your blood pressure checked regularly and seek treatment if it is high. Eat a low-fat diet and follow an exercise program. If you are at high risk, your physician may have you take low-dose aspirin daily to prevent blood clots.
Cigarette smoking is another important factor that can lead to strokes.
The nicotine in cigarettes causes blood platelets to get sticky and more likely to clot. It also contributes to high blood pressure. In addition, the amount of oxygen reaching the brain is reduced by the carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke.