Some combination of diet, exercise and medication can bring hypertension under control. Find out if you have atrial fibrillation . Blood remaining in one place too long tends to stagnate and form clots. Should such a clot escape from the heart, it can travel to the brain and cause a stroke. Don't smoke 3.
Smoking doubles the risk of stroke.
If you stop smoking, your risk will immediately begin to drop. Within five years, your risk may be the same as that of a nonsmoker. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation . However, heavy drinking increases stroke risk. Know your cholesterol levels .