Stroke is a condition in which the blood flow to the brain is interrupted or the blood vessels in the brain rupture. If the symptoms are recognized early, major accidents can be avoided. The main causes are:
High blood pressure (Hypertension): The most important cause of stroke is BP. When blood pressure increases, the delicate blood vessels in the brain may be damaged or rupture (Hemorrhagic Stroke).
Cholesterol: When cholesterol increases in the blood, fat accumulates in the arteries to the brain. This obstructs blood flow and causes ischemic stroke.
Diabetes: Diabetics are more likely to have weak blood vessels and blood clots. This doubles the risk of stroke.
Heart disease: An abnormal heart rhythm (atrial fibrillation) can cause blood clots in the heart, which can travel to the blood vessels in the brain and cause blockages.
Smoking and alcohol: The nicotine in tobacco increases blood pressure and speeds up blood clotting. Excessive alcohol consumption damages the health of blood vessels.