5 Signs You Could Be At Risk Of A Stroke

Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability and the third-leading cause of death in the U.S as the aftermath of a stroke can result in devastating lifestyle changes. Here are five signs that could be putting you at risk of a stroke since they could happen anytime without any warning symptoms.

1. Regular Consumption Of Processed Meats

People who regularly consume processed meats such as bacon, hotdogs, sausage and luncheon meats are 23 percent more likely to suffer from a stroke. Studies suspect that the high sodium content found in processed meats could lead to elevated blood pressure levels and stiffened arteries.

2. Sedentary Lifestyle And Poor Diet

Since moderate exercise several times a week can lower a person's chances of suffering a stroke by 30 percent, a sedentary lifestyle can certainly increase a person's likelihood of a stroke. When the lifestyle is combined with poor diets that are high in meats and starches and low in fresh fruits and vegetables, the stroke risk overwhelmingly spikes.

3. High Blood Pressure

Compared to all cardiovascular diseases, having high blood pressure levels is a major risk factor for a stroke. Since high blood pressure levels do not have warning signs, getting measured by doctors is necessary.

Only 45 percent of adults with high blood pressure have it in control, making the other half at risk, according to the American Heart Association. Females also tend to have more uncontrolled blood pressure levels compared to men.

4. Alcoholics And Smokers

Similarly, smokers double the risk of stroke while heavy smokers face an even greater risk. Researchers found that a family history of abnormal brain arteries in smokers offer an increased risk for subarachnoid hemorrhage stroke by nearly six times.

5. Personal And Family History

Not surprisingly, when a person has suffered a stroke, a second stroke is bound to happen anytime. Unfortunately, even lifestyle changes to prevent a second stroke from happening were only effective in about 57 percent of people who had already suffered a stroke.

Having a family member who suffered a stroke also increases a person's chances of a stroke by 30 percent. The risk increased to 33 percent for ischemic stroke or mini-strokes.