How to Detect Stroke Risk

Strokes are the number two cause of death, just below heart disease. High blood pressure and hypertension may raise stroke risk. A stroke may come in two forms, ischemic and hemorrhagic, and both can be devastating. Risk factors include high blood pressure, obesity, advanced age, diabetes, smoking and poor diet. There are methods of detection that are useful in determining whether you are at risk. Because about 80 percent of strokes occur without no warning, it is advisable to get an ultrasound screening to evaluate your risk of stroke.

Instructions

• 1

  Stroke prevention starts with ultrasound screening. A stroke/carotid artery test is an evaluation of the carotid arteries using ultrasound. The screening tests for buildup in the carotid arteries of fatty plaque. This is the leading cause of stroke.

• 2

  Protect your health by being tested before stroke signs present. The heart rhythm screening, (atrial fibrillation) can detect irregular rhythm in the heartbeat. It is a painless test that uses a six-lead EKG. An increase in stroke risk up to five times is associated with atrial fibrillation.

• 3

  Heart disease and stroke go hand and hand. Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening is used to test for aneurysm in the abdominal aorta, which could lead to a ruptured aortic artery.

• 4

  Peripheral arterial disease screening is good for evaluating plaque buildup in the lower extremities. The likelihood of heart disease increases four to five times if you have peripheral arterial disease.By following all of the above steps you should be able to get information about your risk of stroke. Consult with your physician about ways to reduce your risk.