A stroke can happen suddenly, changing a person’s life in an instant. It occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. Without immediate treatment, parts of the brain can become permanently damaged, affecting speech, movement, memory, and even survival.
At Lagos Executive Cardiovascular Centre (LECC), we believe that knowledge is the first step in preventing stroke. By understanding the risk factors and making lifestyle changes, you can reduce your chances of experiencing this life-threatening condition.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when something blocks blood supply to part of the brain (ischemic stroke) or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts (hemorrhagic stroke). Without oxygen-rich blood, brain cells begin to die within minutes, leading to serious complications.
There’s also a transient ischemic attack (TIA), often called a “mini-stroke.” A TIA causes temporary stroke-like symptoms but doesn’t cause permanent damage. However, it’s a warning sign that a full-blown stroke could happen soon.
Major Risk Factors for Stroke
While anyone can experience a stroke, certain factors significantly increase the risk. Some risk factors are beyond our control, but others can be managed with lifestyle changes and medical intervention.
1. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension – The Silent Threat): High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke. It weakens arteries over time, making them more susceptible to blockages or ruptures. Many people don’t realize they have high blood pressure because it often has no symptoms. That’s why regular blood pressure checks are crucial.
Prevention Tip: Maintain a healthy diet, limit salt intake, exercise regularly, and take prescribed medications if necessary.
2. Heart Disease and Atrial Fibrillation (Irregular Heartbeat): Heart conditions like atrial fibrillation (AFib), where the heart beats irregularly, increase the risk of blood clots forming in the heart and traveling to the brain, causing a stroke.
Prevention Tip: Manage heart conditions with the help of a cardiologist, follow treatment plans, and consider lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake.
3. Diabetes (A Double-Edged Sword): People with diabetes are twice as likely to have a stroke. High blood sugar damages blood vessels, making it easier for fatty deposits to form in arteries, leading to blockages.
Prevention Tip: Keep blood sugar levels under control through healthy eating, regular physical activity, and proper medication management.
4. Smoking (A Stroke Accelerator): Smoking doubles the risk of stroke. It damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure, and reduces oxygen levels in the blood, making clots more likely to form.
Prevention Tip: Quit smoking today. LECC offers resources to help you stop, including counseling and medication support.
5. High Cholesterol (The Hidden Danger): Too much bad cholesterol (LDL) in your blood can lead to fatty deposits in arteries, restricting blood flow to the brain.
Prevention Tip: Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Consider medications like statins if cholesterol levels remain high despite lifestyle changes.
6. Obesity and Lack of Exercise: Being overweight strains the heart and increases the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol—all major stroke risk factors.
Prevention Tip: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise five times a week, such as walking, swimming, or cycling.
7. Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking can raise blood pressure and contribute to irregular heartbeat and obesity—all increasing stroke risk.
Prevention Tip: Drink alcohol in moderation—one drink per day for women, two for men—or consider quitting altogether for better health.
8. Stress and Mental Health: Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure and unhealthy coping mechanisms like smoking or overeating, all of which contribute to stroke risk.
Prevention Tip: Prioritize stress management techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and regular physical activity.
9. Family History and Genetics: If a close relative has had a stroke, your risk may be higher. While you can’t change your genetics, knowing your family history allows you to take preventive measures early.
10. Age, Gender, and Ethnicity: Stroke risk increases with age, especially after 55. Men are at a higher risk of stroke at younger ages, but women tend to have worse outcomes when they do experience a stroke. African populations have a higher stroke risk due to higher rates of hypertension and diabetes.
Recognizing the Warning Signs of a Stroke
A stroke is a medical emergency. The faster you get help, the better the chances of recovery. Use the BE FAST method to recognize stroke symptoms:
- Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
- Eyes: Blurred or lost vision in one or both eyes.
- Face: Drooping on one side of the face. Ask the person to smile.
- Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm. Can they raise both arms?
- Speech: Slurred or garbled speech. Ask them to repeat a sentence.
- Time: If you notice any of these signs, call emergency services immediately. Every second counts.
Preventing Stroke: Small Changes, Big Impact
Even if you have multiple risk factors, it’s never too late to reduce your stroke risk. Making small, consistent changes can dramatically improve your health and prevent a life-threatening event.
Daily Habits for Stroke Prevention
- Check Your Blood Pressure Regularly: If it’s high, work with your doctor to lower it.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: Prioritize vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.
- Move More: Find an activity you enjoy and make it a habit.
- Quit Smoking: Your body begins healing immediately after you stop.
- Limit Alcohol Intake: Stick to moderate drinking or eliminate it altogether.
- Manage Stress: Yoga, meditation, or even a daily walk can make a difference.
- Take Prescribed Medications: If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease, follow your treatment plan.
Stroke Care and Recovery at LECC
At Lagos Executive Cardiovascular Centre, we provide expert stroke prevention, emergency care, and rehabilitation services.
- Advanced Stroke Diagnostics: Identifying your stroke risk with specialized tests.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Managing high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.
- Rehabilitation Services: For stroke survivors needing physical, speech, or occupational therapy.
- Emergency Stroke Care: Time-sensitive treatment for better recovery outcomes.
Your health is in your hands, but we’re here to help.
Take Action Today
Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you have risk factors for stroke, schedule a consultation with our specialists at Lagos Executive Cardiovascular Centre today.
☎️ Call us at +234 817 365 1737
📍 Visit us in Lekki, Lagos
🌐 www.thelecc.com
Your future health starts with today’s choices. Let’s work together to keep your brain and heart healthy.