(NewsNation) — A leading cause of death for Americans, strokes impact more than 795,000 people in the United States annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and controlling preexisting conditions can help prevent strokes.
The CDC recommends eating healthy foods and drinks, engaging in regular physical activity and limiting alcohol.
What is a stroke?
There are two types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
An ischemic stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is blocked or reduced, preventing oxygen, according to the Mayo Clinic.
A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks, causing bleeding in the brain.
Symptoms include trouble speaking; numbness or paralysis in the face, arm or leg; vision problems; headache; and trouble walking.
Someone in the U.S. has a stroke every 40 seconds, according to the CDC.
How to prevent a stroke
Eat well: Fruits and vegetables are a human’s best friend. The CDC suggests foods low in saturated and trans fat and cholesterol, and high in fiber. Limit salt in your diet to lower blood pressure.
Exercise: Get some physical activity. The goal for adults is two and a half hours of moderate exercise daily and one hour for children and teenagers. This can help maintain a healthy weight and lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
Don’t smoke and limit alcohol: The CDC encourages people to put down cigarettes and liquor. Cigarette smoking increases the chance of stroke, and drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure.
Check cholesterol levels: Have your doctor take a blood test to check your cholesterol level once every five years, as recommended by the CDC. If it’s high, lifestyle and diet changes can help lower it.
Control medical conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease are common conditions that put someone at risk for stroke, but managing them can lower your chances.