Controlling blood pressure and health conditions In addition, exercising for 2 hours and 30 minutes weekly can help boost heart health and reduce stroke risk. It is also important for a person to avoid processed foods and sugary drinks. Diet and exerciseĮating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, which helps protect against stroke. After 5 years of smoking cessation, stroke risk is the same as it is for a person who does not smoke. Within 8 hours of quitting, blood oxygen levels improve, and carbon monoxide and nicotine levels reduce by more than 50%. Even if a person has smoked for years, quitting reduces the risk of stroke almost immediately. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce a person’s risk of stroke. Smoking and secondhand smoke are major causes of cardiovascular disease, including stroke. Medical professionals can help a person take steps to reduce their risk of stroke.
Because TIAs can precede a stroke or raise the risk of having one, people should not hesitate in contacting their doctor if they believe they have had one.
