Confusion over risk factors could lead to stroke

The Stroke Association logo

A new survey by the Stroke Association reveals that around one in ten people incorrectly believe that high blood pressure, the biggest controllable risk factor for stroke, has clear warning symptoms.

Respondents to the survey mistakenly thought that high blood pressure signs can include swelling in the arm or bruising around the chest, when in fact the condition has no symptoms at all.

Chris Larkin, Regional Head of Operations at the Stroke Association said: “Research has shown that almost half of strokes could be prevented if people took steps to control their blood pressure. However, identifying people at risk of stroke from high blood pressure can be difficult, because it often has no symptoms.

“It’s worrying to see from the results of our survey that people in the North West region expect to see warning signs of the condition. Getting your blood pressure tested is simple, there are no needles and it is quick and painless. It is absolutely essential to get your blood pressure checked regularly in order to keep your risk of stroke down.”

High blood pressure is usually diagnosed if it is consistently higher than 140/90mmHg. Anyone with a reading around or above this figure should seek advice from their GP. If your blood pressure is above 160/100mmHg you should seek urgent medical attention.
Top tips for reducing blood pressure:

• Eat a healthy diet low in saturated fat and salt
• Exercise regularly
• Give up smoking
• Reduce stress
• Lose weight if you need to

The Stroke Association’s Know Your Blood Pressure campaign helps people of all ages to understand the link between high blood pressure and stroke and other risk factors for stroke. The charity gets to the heart of communities by holding events across the UK offering free blood pressure testing, stroke prevention information and advice.

For more information on blood pressure testing visit www.stroke.org.uk/kybp.