World Stroke Day 2024: High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a leading cause of stroke

World Stroke Day is celebrated every year on October 29 to raise awareness about stroke, its causes and the importance of prevention, treatment and rehabilitation. It was created by the World Stroke Organization to draw attention to the high prevalence and impact of stroke worldwide, as well as to raise awareness of risk factors and preventive measures. This day reiterates the importance of acting quickly in the event of a stroke and emphasizes FAST warning signs (face, arms, speech, time) that can help identify a stroke and ask immediate help. By encouraging lifestyle changes and preventative practices, World Stroke Day aims to reduce the global burden of stroke and improve the quality of life of stroke survivors. Let’s recognize this day by understanding the main prevention factors that can reduce the risk of stroke.

9 tips for better brain health and reducing the risk of stroke

1. Follow a heart-healthy diet

Eating foods rich in antioxidants, healthy fats and fiber, such as leafy greens, berries, nuts and oily fish, promotes cardiovascular health and reduces the risk of stroke. These foods improve blood flow to the brain, nourish brain cells, and help lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

2. Stay physically active

Regular exercise, such as walking, cycling or swimming, strengthens the heart and improves blood circulation, which reduces the risk of stroke. Exercise also stimulates brain plasticity, improves mood, and may help prevent cognitive decline.

3. Maintain a healthy weight

Obesity is a significant risk factor for stroke, so weight management through a balanced diet and regular physical activity can reduce the risk of stroke. Maintaining a healthy weight also reduces blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol, all of which help prevent strokes.

4. Participate in mental exercises

Challenge your brain regularly with activities like reading, puzzles, learning a new language, or playing a musical instrument. These activities stimulate neural connections, which help keep the brain active and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

5. Stop smoking

Smoking damages blood vessels, thickens the blood and accelerates the formation of artery-clogging plaques, which increases the risk of stroke. Quitting smoking can significantly reduce this risk and improve blood flow to the brain.

6. Monitor blood pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the leading causes of stroke. Check your blood pressure regularly, try to keep it within a healthy range, and seek medical attention if it is high.

7. Control blood sugar

Diabetes can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of blood clots, which contribute to strokes. Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication (if necessary) is crucial for brain health.

8. Manage stress levels

Chronic stress and high levels of anxiety can increase blood pressure and promote inflammation, which are risk factors for stroke. Adopt relaxation techniques like meditation, breathing exercises, and hobbies to control stress.

9. Get quality sleep

Poor sleep quality and sleep apnea can increase blood pressure and the risk of stroke. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night, as this allows your brain and body to recharge and repair itself.

Follow these tips for better brain health and to reduce your risk of stroke.

Disclaimer: This content, including tips, provides generic information only. It does not in any way replace qualified medical advice. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim any responsibility for this information.