To help prevent a stroke:

• Get screened for high blood pressure at least every two years, especially if you have a family history of high blood pressure.
• Have your cholesterol checked.
• Treat high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease if present.
• Follow a low-fat diet.
• Quit smoking.
• Exercise regularly.
• Lose weight if you are overweight.
• Avoid excessive alcohol use (no more than 1 to 2 drinks per day).

If you have had a TIA or stroke in the past, or you currently have a heart arrhythmia (like atrial fibrillation), mechanical heart valve, congestive heart failure, or risk factors for stroke, your doctor may have you take aspirin or other blood thinners. Make sure you follow your doctor's instructions and take the medication.

To prevent bleeding strokes, take steps to avoid falls and injuries.