High Blood Pressure Having high blood pressure increases the risk of stroke four to six times. It is the single-most important controllable stroke risk factor. High blood pressure puts stress on blood vessel walls and can lead to strokes from blood clots or hemorrhage. When blood pressure can't be controlled through lifestyle modification, your doctor may prescribe an antihypertensive medication. Having heart disease increases stroke risk up to six times.
Heart disease is linked to the buildup of fatty deposits in blood vessel walls.
AF causes the chambers of the heart to beat rapidly and irregularly. This causes the heart to beat inefficiently, leaving blood in the chamber. When blood pools, it can form clots which could be carried to the brain. High Cholesterol High cholesterol can increase stroke risk. Increased levels of cholesterol cause plaque to form in the arteries, decreasing the flow of blood.