What are the risk factors for stroke?

A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or a blood vessel bleeds. High blood pressure can damage vessel walls over time and is a major modifiable risk factor. Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heart rhythm that can allow a clot to form and travel to the brain. Type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol can also damage blood vessels. Smoking, heavy alcohol use, limited physical activity and excess weight may add to vascular risk. Age, family history and a previous stroke or transient ischaemic attack cannot be changed, but identifying them helps guide prevention. Risk factors can combine, so a person may benefit from checking several areas together.

Have your blood pressure checked and discuss blood glucose, cholesterol and heart-rhythm assessment when appropriate. Take prescribed medicines consistently; do not stop blood-pressure or rhythm treatment without medical advice. Avoid smoking, keep alcohol within local health guidance, move regularly and choose a balanced eating pattern. If you have atrial fibrillation, ask whether clot-prevention treatment is suitable. A clinician can set goals that account for pregnancy, kidney disease, other medicines and your personal history.

Call emergency services immediately for sudden facial drooping, weakness or numbness on one side, speech or understanding problems, sudden vision loss, severe dizziness, loss of balance or a sudden severe headache. Note when the person was last known to be well. Symptoms that improve can still represent a transient ischaemic attack and need urgent assessment; do not wait for them to return.

Which risk factors should I check first? Is my blood pressure, diabetes or cholesterol treatment working as intended? Could an irregular rhythm affect my prevention plan?