What are the risk factors for stroke?

The risk factors for stroke are in two categories.  Some are what we call modifiable risk factors which are things that you can control. Others are things that are passed genetically. In that genetic category we tend to pay attention to but since we can't modify it, and people can't control it, we very much focus on what you can control. So, while family history is important in stroke, things that you can change in your life are, making sure your blood pressure is well-controlled, working with your doctor to make sure that you are on the right medications if you need to be. Making sure if you have diabetes that your blood sugar is a very tightly controlled. Also working with your physician to make sure cholesterol is adequately treated or is in the levels that are appropriate.  Smoking is a big risk factor for stroke. And if you are smoking we always ask you to stop or get help to stop smoking. And then exercise and diet, which becomes imperative or important to almost every disease process we talk about. Taking care of yourself, getting a routine exercise, all of those things can help you ward off a stroke if you control them and work with your primary care physician or your stroke doctor to take care of those factors.