Family history of stroke
High blood pressure, (hypertension)
Excessive alcohol consumption
High cholesterol
Heart disease
Abnormalities of the clotting system in the blood
You can’t change your family history but there are things you can do now like giving up smoking, eating less salt and doing more exercise, which could lower your risk of stroke and illnesses like heart disease and cancer.
Recovering from a stroke:
The type and time of recovery is dependent on the severity of the stroke.
Q Recovery is usually fastest in the first few months after the stroke.
Q There are different approaches to rehabilitation: these can include physical, speech or occupational therapy.
Q Drugs can be used to lower blood pressure: these can include aspirin, or new drugs Persantin and Asasantin.
Q The first and most important stage in recovery is to stabilise the patient and make sure he or she is comfortable. Victims are more likely to recover if they do not feel vulnerable.
NFor more information and advice call the Stroke Association on 0845 30 33 100 or visit its website, www.stroke.org.uk
Hidden danger
One in five people in the region suffer from high blood pressure which has not been diagnosed. The condition is a major risk factor for stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.
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