Stroke is the second leading cause of cardiovascular-related death in the United States, striking close to 800,000 people in the nation each year. The risk increases with age; a 2023 study reported a 15% rise in strokes in middle-aged adults aged 45 to 64.
Fortunately, you can take steps to protect against stroke, and the team at Advanced Heart & Vascular Associates, led by Dr. Nader Chadda, is here to help. The American Stroke Association and American Heart Association released evidence-based guidelines – updated in 2024 – outlining the most valuable strategies for preventing strokes.
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke. Other factors that boost the chances of stroke are:
The 2024 guidelines emphasize regular health assessments and aggressive management of these risk factors.
Start by knowing your:
If you have hypertension, lifestyle changes and medication can help you get it under control. For some patients, more than one medication is necessary. Dr. Chadda and our team can help evaluate your cardiovascular and vascular risk and coordinate an appropriate prevention strategy.
Adopt practical, sustainable, health-promoting eating habits. The 2024 guidelines recommend a Mediterranean-style eating pattern, which is grounded in plant-based foods with plenty of vegetables, fruits, fish, chicken, lean meat, and olive oil as the primary fat.
Getting plenty of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is also crucial, while avoiding extended sedentary time is equally important. Steering clear of tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting adequate restorative sleep are also vital components of keeping your blood vessels, brain, and heart healthy and strong.
Plaque buildup can narrow the carotid arteries and increase the risk of stroke. If you have significant cardiovascular risk factors or a history of vascular disease, talk with Dr. Chadda about whether a vascular evaluation is appropriate.
A vascular ultrasound is a painless, noninvasive test that can assess blood flow and identify abnormalities in the carotid arteries. Finding vascular disease early gives our team an opportunity to address risk factors and determine whether medical management, monitoring, or intervention is appropriate.
Prevention also means recognizing when an emergency is happening. Here’s what to look out for:
These symptoms can be a sign of a stroke. Use the acronym F.A.S.T.: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 911. Even if symptoms disappear, they may represent a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which requires prompt medical evaluation.
The 2024 AHA/ASA guidelines emphasize that preventing a first stroke starts with identifying risk factors and addressing them early. Research has estimated that as many as 80% of strokes are preventable, making prevention a powerful tool for protecting your health.
At Advanced Heart & Vascular Associates, Dr. Nader Chadda and our team take a comprehensive approach to vascular health, including risk assessment, diagnostic imaging, and advanced treatment when appropriate.
If you are over 50 or have risk factors for stroke or vascular disease, call or message Advanced Heart & Vascular Associates in Hudson or Brooksville, Florida, to discuss your individual risk and whether a vascular evaluation may be appropriate.
