Stroke is the sudden death of some brain cells due to a lack of oxygen when the blood flow to the brain is impaired by blockage or rupture of an artery to the brain. A stroke is caused by blockage in brain artery or bleeding in brain. Treatments can save patient's life but the damage happened because of stroke can not be repaired fully. Hence it is important to note down the risk factors of stroke so that we can try our best to prevent it. In most of the cases it is due to high or low blood pressure. 40 % of patients could have avoided the stroke if they are aware of high blood pressure. So it is the main risk factor for stroke. If the person's blood pressure is too high roughly greater than 140/90, the risk of stroke occurring is more. So controlling the blood pressure is important. The second important risk factor is consumption of tobacco. Cigarettes smoking cause the carotid arteries to develop atherosclerosis or to close. Because of diabetes small vessels to close earlier than expected hence it causes small strokes. Blood cholesterol is a general risk for blockage of blood vessels. If the heart beats are irregular then risk of having an embolic stroke is increased.

Major risk factors are high blood pressure and cholesterol. But they could be avoided. Hence the awareness of people about the causes and prevention of stroke should be increased. National Stroke Association is an organization is working to promote the stroke awareness of people. All adults above 20 should check their cholesterol after every 5 years and after 45 years frequently. Low cholesterol can be maintained by changing the lifestyle, balanced diet and regular exercise routine. Blood pressure checking should be done after regular intervals.

There are many measures which could reduce the chances of high blood pressure and therefore the chances of having a stroke.

1) Giving up smoking
2) Controlled consumption of alcohol.
3) Balanced diet including plenty of fruit and vegetables
4) Exercise regularly and be active during the day.
5) Check your blood pressure regularly by your doctor.
6) Reduce the stress level.

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