The World Health Organisation has identified stroke as one of the main reasons for death, as around 1.5 billion people are diagnosed with the condition globally every year. The risk of stroke could be reduced by bringing positive changes in your lifestyle. Humans can't control factors like age, gender, and genetics; however, we can easily control or regulate some things.
Healthy diet
Following a healthy and balanced diet is key to preventing stroke. WHO recommends including vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean protein in the regular diet while reducing the intake of trans fats, saturated fats and added sugar. Limit your daily salt intake to less than 5 grams to regulate your blood sugar levels. Salty food items like pickles should be consumed only moderately.

Regular workout
Moderate to hard aerobic workouts for up to 15 minutes a week are essential to preventing stroke. Brisk walking, swimming, and cycling are some excellent aerobic workouts that you could try. Besides maintaining a healthy body weight, they help control blood pressure and improve general health.
Maintain healthy body weight
Obesity is the main cause of stroke. You could maintain a healthy body weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. If your BMI is less than 25 kg/per, you maintain a healthy body weight.

Diabetes
It is important to control blood sugar levels, as diabetes is a main trigger for stroke. You can control diabetes through a healthy diet, regular workouts, and medicines. Make sure to check your blood sugar levels regularly and visit the doctor occasionally for the necessary tests.
Blood pressure and stroke
High blood pressure could increase the risk of stroke. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential for catching the stroke symptoms early.
Sleep apnoea
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. It may be related to stroke and heart disease. Feeling excessively sleepy during the day and loud snoring are the main symptoms of sleep apnea. Do not hesitate to seek immediate medical help if you notice these symptoms.
Family history and genetics
If there is a family history of conditions like heart disease, stroke or thrombosis, then consult a doctor for expert advice. Some genetic factors play a pivotal role in stroke attacks. Getting an early diagnosis reduces the risk in the future.

A thirty-year-old man who got his hair cut at a salon in Whitefield suffered a stroke after the head massage. Photo: iStock/Peterschreiber.media
The first four hours after the symptoms appear is known as the window period. Photo: iStock/Peterschreiber.media

These are some of the symptoms of stroke
1) Face drooping and paralysis
2) Weak hands
3) Difficulty to speak
The patient must be rushed to the hospital if these symptoms are noticed.
The first four hours after the symptoms begin to appear are known as the window period. During this period, the patient must be given medicines, including the injection, to prevent blood clotting. Rushing to the hospital as soon as the symptoms appear would improve the chances of recovery.
Preventing stroke by following a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle is possible.