Protect yourself from stroke

A stroke isn’t something that happens to just older adults. People under 60 are being affected more than ever before — and many don’t even realize they’re at risk. But here’s the good news: most strokes can be prevented.

By knowing your risks and making small, powerful changes, you can help protect yourself from stroke and improve your health for the long run.

Lower your stroke risk in 3 steps

Step 1
Know your risk

Stroke affects people of all ages and ethnicities. It often starts with health conditions you might already have and not even know about. The biggest ones include:

These risk factors can quietly build up over time. That’s why it’s so important to get regular checkups and keep an eye on your numbers.

Step 2
Make healthy changes

You don’t have to completely overhaul your life to reduce your risk. Start with a few simple changes like:

Choose healthier meals and snacks
Move your body every day
Quit smoking or vaping
Limit alcohol
Work toward a healthy weight

Step 3
See your doctor regularly

Routine visits with your primary care provider (PCP) can help catch problems early and manage any conditions that may increase your stroke risk. They’ll work with you to create a personalized plan to keep your health on track. Things you may talk to your PCP about include:

Ways to lower your high blood pressure
Treatment options to lower high cholesterol
Working with an AHN dietician to improve your diet
Getting weight loss support and care from your comprehensive care team
Managing your diabetes
How to quit smoking

It’s important that you learn about the signs or symptoms of stroke, so you and your family members can take quick action if a stroke ever occurs.

Need an appointment?

You can request an appointment with your current AHN PCP or make an appointment with a PCP near you by calling (412) DOCTORS (412) 362-8677 (Pittsburgh) or (814) CONNECT (814) 866-6328 (Erie) or by scheduling online.

Expert stroke care

If you’ve already experienced stroke and are seeking a consultation or second opinion with a stroke expert, call the AHN Neuroscience Institute at (412) 359-8850.

If you are currently experiencing any signs or symptoms of a stroke, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.