Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

You can help prevent a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke by controlling your risk factors for stroke.

Know your stroke risk

These are some of the common risk factors for stroke:

• You smoke.
• You have Reference high blood pressure Opens New Window.
• Your cholesterol level is Reference higher than average.
• You have diabetes.
• You are overweight.
• You don't exercise on a regular basis.
• You drink Reference large amounts Opens New Window of alcohol.

Treat any health problems you have

• Manage high blood pressure or high cholesterol by working with your doctor.
• Manage diabetes. Keep your blood sugar levels within a target range.
• If your doctor advises you to take aspirin or a blood thinner, take it. This can help prevent a stroke.
• Take your medicine exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle

• Don't smoke or allow others to smoke around you. For more information, see the topic Reference Quitting Smoking.
• Limit alcohol to 2 Reference drinks Opens New Window Reference Opens New Window a day for men and 1 drink a day for women.
• Stay at a healthy weight. Being overweight makes it more likely you will develop high blood pressure, heart problems, and diabetes. These conditions make a stroke more likely.
• Do Reference activities that raise your heart rate. Get at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week. Walking is a good choice. You also may want to do other activities, such as running, swimming, cycling, or playing tennis or team sports.

  Reference Reference Fitness: Walking for Wellness

• Eat a balanced diet that is low in cholesterol, saturated fats, and salt. What kind of diet you use (What is a Reference PDF Opens New Window document?) depends on your individual risks, your doctor's recommendation, and your preference.
  • Reference Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet
  • Reference Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC) diet
  • Reference American Heart Association diet
  • Reference Mediterranean-style diet

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.