How to Prevent a Stroke If Heart Disease Runs in Your Family

If you have a family history of heart disease, you can reduce your chances of developing heart disease or stroke. At Advanced Heart and Vascular Associates, vascular intervention specialist Nader Chadda, MD, FACC, FSCAI, partners with patients to identify risk factors and take steps to prevent stroke. A healthy lifestyle can offset the influence of genetic vulnerabilities to heart disease and stroke. Half the battle is knowing what steps you can take to protect yourself.

Know your risk

The first step in lowering your chance of stroke is to know your risk. If you smoke, have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, you’re at a higher risk of having a stroke. Dr. Chadda will work with you to address underlying risk factors so you can keep your vascular system healthy. Once Dr. Chadda identifies risk factors that apply to you, he will create an individualized stroke-prevention plan.

Keep an eye on your numbers

Regular health checkups are essential when it comes to stroke prevention. Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels. High blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke, so keeping it within a healthy range is crucial. Keeping cholesterol and blood sugar levels in check can also reduce your risk. Work with your health care provider to track these numbers and manage them effectively.

Embrace a heart-healthy diet

Your diet plays a key role in preventing stroke and heart disease. Focus on eating a balanced, heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods high in fiber and low in saturated fats can help lower cholesterol and maintain healthy blood pressure. Incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and flaxseeds, are especially good for your heart.

Stay active and exercise regularly

Regular physical activity is an important part of maintaining a healthy heart and reducing stroke risk. The key is to find something you enjoy doing that involves moving your body. This could be anything from gardening to swimming. If you don’t know where to start, try walking. It may come as a surprise to know that walking is one of the best forms of exercise. Moving your body regularly lowers blood pressure, helps manage cholesterol and weight, boosts mood, and protects brain health.

Quit smoking and limit alcohol

If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your heart and overall health. Smoking damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure, and increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. Seek support from health care professionals, support groups, or smoking cessation programs to help you quit if you haven’t had success quitting on your own. Additionally, limit alcohol consumption, as excessive drinking can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues.

Manage stress effectively

Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart health and increase your stroke risk. Finding healthy ways to manage stress is crucial. Incorporate stress-reducing activities like yoga, mindfulness meditation, and breathing exercises. This helps balance stress and restore a sense of calm and control. 

Stay connected with your health care provider

Regular consultations with your health care provider are essential for staying on top of your heart health. Ask Dr. Chadda about any recommended screenings that may aid in lowering stroke risk. Depending on your personal risk factors, Dr. Chadda may recommend specific screenings or risk assessments. 

Taking proactive steps to prevent a stroke, especially if heart disease runs in your family, is an excellent way to protect your health. To learn more about stroke prevention, call or message our offices in Brooksville and Hudson, Florida, to request a consultation. Making positive lifestyle changes is something you can start today.