A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either by a blockage or a ruptured blood vessel. When blood flow stops, brain cells are deprived of oxygen, causing these cells to die within minutes and leading to symptoms like paralysis, speech difficulties, and even death.

Stroke remains a leading cause of disability and death worldwide. Those who have experienced a stroke are also at an increased risk of experiencing another.

Causes of Recurrent Stroke

Several factors can heighten the risk of a recurrent stroke. Being aware of these causes is essential to reduce the chance of having another stroke.

Here are some common causes of recurrent stroke:

High Blood Pressure

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a primary cause of both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. High blood pressure can damage blood vessel walls, making them prone to rupture or forming plaque that blocks blood flow.

After a stroke, it’s vital to monitor and control blood pressure through medication and lifestyle changes.

High cholesterol and heart disease

Elevated LDL cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, potentially blocking blood flow to the brain and triggering an ischemic stroke.

Heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease or irregular heart rhythms, also raise the likelihood of a recurrent stroke.

Diabetes

People with diabetes face a higher risk of stroke, particularly ischemic stroke. Diabetes can harm blood vessels and lead to plaque buildup in the arteries.

Poorly controlled blood sugar levels further increase the risk of a second stroke, underscoring the importance of maintaining normal blood sugar levels, especially after an initial stroke.

Unhealthy Lifestyle Choices

Unhealthy habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a diet high in saturated fat and salt are leading contributors to recurrent strokes.

For instance, smoking can cause blood vessels to narrow and increase plaque accumulation. Excessive alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure and weaken heart and blood vessel function.

Diets high in salt from processed foods, fast foods, and canned goods can elevate blood pressure due to fluid retention, increasing the heart's workload.

Similarly, diets high in fat but low in fiber can elevate LDL cholesterol, causing plaque buildup in arteries, narrowing vessels, and raising the risk of blockage.

Obesity and Lack of Physical Activity

Obesity is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, particularly stroke. Excess weight can lead to hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, all of which elevate stroke risk.

Inactivity can further worsen these conditions. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, improve blood circulation, and reduce blood pressure.

For those who have had a stroke, it’s essential to regularly check blood pressure, take prescribed medications, quit smoking, limit alcohol intake, follow a balanced diet, and engage in regular physical activity. For additional guidance, consult a doctor through the Ai Care health consultation service, available on the App Store or Play Store.

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