About Causes of Stroke-:

Bizymoms.com shows you causes of stroke and and more about controllable and uncontrollable risk factors of stroke. Learn what a stroke is and what symptoms to look for in case a loved one suffers from a stroke.

A stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks the blood vessel or erupts and prevents the flow of blood to the brain.  As a result the cells in that area start to die, and the abilities and functions controlled by that particular area of the brain are lost.  Therefore, it is vital that immediate attention is given to the patient.  However, the state of the patient suffering from a stroke will depend on the extent the brain has got damaged.

80% of stroke attacks could be prevented.  There are certain factors that lead to stroke.  Being aware of them can help one to be more cautious and thus prevent a possible attack.

Uncontrollable Risk Factors:

The risk of stroke increases with age.  After the age of 55, you are more prone to a stroke attack.

Stroke in men are more common.

The risk is twice the rate of whites, if you are an African American.

If a member of your family has had a stroke, you are more at a risk of getting a stroke.

If you have already had a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or a mini-stroke, the chances are that you will get another stroke.

Having one of the above risk factors does not mean that you are bound to get a stroke.  Stroke is preventable.  There are certain conditions and diseases that increase the risk of stroke and these could be avoided by taking proper precautions.

Controllable Risk Factors:

High Blood Pressure – The heart has to pump harder in order to move blood through the body.  This results in weakening the blood vessels and thereby damage organs like the brain and lead to a stroke.

Atrial Fibrillation – This increases the risk of stroke as it allows the blood to pool in the heart and clots forming as a result.  These clots could travel to the brain and block arteries and a stroke can take place.

Cholesterol - These are fatty substances in the blood.  High cholesterol can block arteries or blood vessels.  People with this condition are prone to heart attacks as well as stroke.

Diabetes – Not being able to produce enough insulin which is vital for cells in the body.  This increases the risk of stroke.

Tobacco/Smoking – damages blood vessels, clogs arteries and increases the blood pressure.

Alcohol – Studies have revealed that alcohol contributed to the risk of stroke.

Obesity – Being over-weight puts a strain on the whole body.  Generally people who are obese have the conditions of high blood pressure and cholesterol too.

Looking at the above whether it is uncontrollable or controllable factors, by being aware of your conditions, you can avoid getting a stroke. Importantly by eating well, exercising and a healthy life-style, stroke could be prevented.