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Individuals should talk to their primary care provider to find out if they are at risk for stroke and learn how to control stroke risks through medication, and diet and lifestyle modification.

Could You be at Risk for Stroke?

Some risk factors such as age, sex, and family history can not be altered, but there are many risk factors associated with stroke that can be lowered or treated through lifestyle modifications or medication.

Controllable Risk Factors:

High blood pressure —the most important controllable risk factor for stroke.

Cigarette smoking — nicotine and carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke damages the cardio and cerebrovascular system.

Heart diseases — atrial fibrillation, coronary heart disease, and heart failure effect cardiac function and circulation increasing stroke risk.

High blood cholesterol — increases stroke risk due to narrowing of arteries.

Diet high in fat and salt —can raise blood cholesterol and pressure levels.

Inactivity— increases risk of high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, heart disease and stroke.

Weight— being overweight or obese increases blood pressure levels.

Learn more about stroke from the American Stroke Association

Think FAST

Learn to “Think F.A.S.T” to recognize stroke symptoms

Learning the signs and symptoms of stroke can save valuable time and precious brain function. Using the easy mnemonic device FAST to remember stroke symptoms can help expedite medical and surgery stroke intervention. If stroke symptoms come on abruptly or are one-sided, call 911 immediately for emergency treatment.

Surviving Stroke

Read our stroke patient story, "Window of Opportunity."

Stroke Peer Support

Stroke Survivors Starting Over Program (SSSO)

Patient Information Sheet and Handouts

This education information was developed for you by the Center for Patient and Community Education.

Stroke: Your Care at Home

Stroke: Your Care in the Hospital

Stroke: Your Care in the Hospital and at Home (Chinese)

Stroke: Your Care in the Hospital and at Home (Russian)

Stroke: Youre Care in the Hospital and at Home (Spanish)

Think F.A.S.T printable stroke symptom reminder.

The American Heart Association has worked collaboratively with several San Francisco Organizations to create the San Francisco Stroke Resource Guide. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open these documents.
The San Francisco Stroke Resource Guide

Read Robin Douglass' aneurysm story "Just a Headache?

Advanced Medical Care