17 Surprising Things That Affect Stroke Risk

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What causes a stroke?

By Karen Pallarito

Stroke occurs when a blood vessel carrying blood and oxygen to the brain becomes blocked (ischemic stroke) or bursts (hemorrhagic stroke).

“Stroke is scary for many people because it seems—and often is — an unpredictable and mysterious event,” said Amy L. Doneen, medical director of the Heart Attack & Stroke Prevention Center in Spokane, Wash. “The good news is these events are preventable.”

Basically a heart-healthy lifestyle cuts your stroke risk too. So get a veggie wrap instead of the pastry, take a bike ride, and quit smoking. But there are many other things you can do to lower your stroke risk. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

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