Visit your doctor for regular checks
- Blood pressure - Your doctor will if necessary prescribe appropriate medication – most hypertension drugs are now virtually side-effect free and very effective.
- Cholesterol - can often be controlled by diet, but if necessary cholesterol-lowering medication can be prescribed.
- Diabetes - iIf you have diabetes follow your doctor’s instructions regarding diet and medication carefully.
- Heart beat - a form of irregular heart beat called atrial fibrillation is associated with an increased risk of stroke.
A recent study recommends that GPs screen patients as young as 30 for risk factors for stroke. This recommendation follows a large audit in Australia, which found that 70% of patients had one or more risk factors for stroke and 24% had two or more. Hypertension was the most common risk factor (44%).
Be especially vigilant if you have a family history of heart disease or stroke.
Don’t smoke
Reduce your stress levels
Limit your alcohol intake
Manage your weight
Exercise regularly
A brisk 30 minute walk daily or other regular exercise (cycling, tennis, swimming, aerobics) will assist weight control and improve your health in many ways.
Eat a balanced diet, avoid food high in salt and fat
A diet that includes plenty of fruit and vegetables, bread and cereals, and is low in fat and salt will help in both weight and cholesterol control.
Enjoy work and play
Balance work and leisure time
Reviewed by Professor Alastair Corbett, Consultant Neurologist, Concord Hospital
Date created: 26 September 2003
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