Heart disease and atherosclerosis A history of heart disease more than doubles the chance of stroke and a clot is more likely to block the blood flow if the artery has become narrowed by atherosclerosis. The importance of raised serum cholesterol levels in increasing stroke risk is not well established, so routine use of lipid-lowering agents in stroke survivors is not felt to be justified unless they have coronary artery disease. The irregular beat may lead to blood clots forming in the heart, which travel to the brain. Too much alcohol Binge drinking increases the risk of stroke five-fold, as it can make the blood pressure soar. Heavy drinking on a regular basis also raises blood pressure.
Regular exercise lowers blood pressure, helps weight loss and improves the blood lipid profile.
An unhealthy diet High salt consumption can cause hypertension, while a diet high in saturated fats can lead to atherosclerosis. Diabetes People with diabetes are more prone to hypertension and atherosclerosis. Taking oral contraceptives Studies of the earlier high dose pills showed a definite increase in risk. It can be reduced further if women are under 35 years old, do not smoke, have regular blood pressure checks and take low oestrogen doses. For haemorrhagic strokes there is an increased risk in women over 35 and smokers, and the risk increases ten to 15 times in those with a history of hypertension.