Highcholesterolcan increase your risk of having a stroke.
A stroke happens when a blockage prevents blood from reaching the brain.
Can High Cholesterol Cause a Stroke?
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Types of Stroke
There are two major types of stroke.
The most common bang out of stroke,ischemic stroke, is resulting from the blockage of blood flow.
The risk factors for ischemic strokes, including high cholesterol, are the same as those coronaryheart disease.
A low level of LDL has been associated with a hemorrhagic stroke risk.
Types of Cholesterol
Another significant factor: Not all cholesterol is the same.
Different types of cholesterol can have very different effects on the body.
The ruptured plaque can trigger the blood to clot, which further increases the risk of blocked blood flow.
What Causes High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol is resulting from certain diet and lifestyle factors.
These typically include:
What Are Cholesterol Levels?
Your healthcare provider can measure your cholesterol levels with standard lipid blood tests.
Current guidelines set similar cholesterol goals for reducing the risk ofstrokeand the risk of coronary heart disease.
What Increases Your Risk of Stroke?
High cholesterol is just one of a few things that can increase your risk of having a stroke.
Avoid foods that are high in cholesterol.
Eating fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids can help raise your HDL levels.
Avoid foods that are high in sodium and limit your consumption of alcohol.
There is evidence that quitting smoking can help improve your blood cholesterol levels.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight can help you keep your cholesterol levels in check.
If you are overweight or obese, talk to your healthcare provider about starting a diet and exercise program.
There here are nonstatin options for patients who cannot tolerate statins or whose medical providers recommend other approaches.
Summary
High cholesterol can increase your risk of having a stroke.
Some of the risk factors for stroke can’t be controlled, such as older age and genetics.
If your cholesterol levels are dangerously high, ask your healthcare provider about cholesterol-lowering medications.
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