The Connections Between Genetics and Stroke Risk

Strokes are one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability worldwide. While lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise and smoking are well-known contributors to stroke risk, the role of genetics is increasingly becoming clear in medical research.

When thinking about your long-term health and well-being, it’s important to understand the connection between genetics and stroke risk. Whether you have a family history of high blood pressure or are simply interested in learning more about stroke risk factors, we’ve got you covered.

Understanding Stroke Risk Factors

A stroke. also called a brain attack, occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic, caused by a blockage in an artery, and hemorrhagic, caused by a leak or burst of a blood vessel.

Strokes are a medical emergency, requiring the affected individuals to seek medical assistance right away. Getting help as soon as possible may reduce the risk of brain damage or other stroke-related health complications.

Are Strokes Genetic?

The answer is complex. While having a family history of stroke can increase your risk, it is not the only factor to consider. Genetic predisposition can certainly play a role, but it is often interwoven with other factors, such as environmental influences and personal behaviors.

Genetic markers and family history

Research has identified several genetic markers that are associated with an increased risk of stroke. For example, specific gene mutations can lead to conditions like familial hypercholesterolemia, which can cause high cholesterol levels and increase stroke risk.

Moreover, a family history of high blood pressure (hypertension) can be a strong indicator of one’s own risk. Hypertension is a significant risk factor for stroke, and it can run in families due to both genetic and shared lifestyle factors.

How to Reduce the Risk of Stroke

Unfortunately, there are some stroke risk factors we cannot change. This includes age, gender, race/ethnicity and yes, genetics. However, there are some steps people may take to mitigate further risks of stroke.

Lifestyle changes

One of the major contributing factors to stroke risk involves the person’s lifestyle. Eating an unhealthy diet, regular alcohol consumption and smoking can all play a role in increasing one’s chance of stroke risk.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle (as early as possible!) can, as a result, play a major role in reducing the risk of stroke. Try incorporating the following in your day-to-day life:

• Regular exercise
• A balanced diet (reduce saturated fats or overly processed foods)
• Avoid smoking
• Reduce alcohol consumption

By making the following changes, you may be able to better control stroke risk factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels and weight.

Regular health screenings

Another important step to implement in your life is regular health screenings. A family medicine doctor can help you both detect and manage conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol, therefore reducing your risk of stroke. Your family medicine doctor would also take the time to learn more about your family health history, enabling them to identify the possible warning signs of stroke risk early on.

Medication

For those with a genetic predisposition or existing risk factors for stroke, medications may be prescribed to help manage these conditions. Antihypertensive drugs, cholesterol-lowering medications, and anticoagulants are common treatments that can significantly reduce the risk of stroke.

Warning Signs of a Stroke

Recognizing the warning signs of a stroke can be lifesaving. An effective way to identify the signs of a stroke is to use the F.A.S.T acronym to conduct a quick check of the person you believe is having a stroke. Ask the following:

• Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
• Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
• Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
• Time: If you observe any of these signs, call emergency services immediately.

Other symptoms may include sudden numbness or weakness, confusion, trouble seeing or walking, or a sudden severe headache.

The Role of Family Medicine Doctors in Managing Stroke Risk

Family medicine doctors often act as the first line of defense against stroke. They play a crucial role in educating patients about stroke risks, implementing early intervention techniques, managing chronic conditions and advocating for healthy lifestyle choices.

Genetic counseling

For patients with a known family history of stroke or high blood pressure, genetic counseling can be an important aspect of care. Genetic counselors can help patients understand their risks and the impact of genetics on their health.

Personalized health strategies

Family medicine doctors can tailor health strategies to the individual’s genetic and lifestyle factors. By considering the whole patient, including their genetic predisposition and family history, doctors can create more effective prevention plans.

Ongoing support and education

Ongoing support and education are key to helping patients make informed decisions about their health. Family medicine doctors can provide resources and guidance for those looking to reduce their stroke risk, as well as for patients recovering from a stroke.

Elevate Your Health

As more research highlights the connections between strokes and genetic factors, it’s important to understand how people may influence other health factors for long-term health and well-being.

Stay informed, stay proactive, and consult with your healthcare provider to learn more about what you can do to stay healthy.

At Northern Nevada Medical Group, our board-certified family medicine doctors are here to help. Located in the Northern Nevada area, our doctors are dedicated to providing comprehensive patient care for patients of all ages.

Learn more about our family medicine doctors, including what conditions we treat as well as what treatment and services we provide.

Reach out to us with any questions or concerns you may have by scheduling an appointment online or calling 775-352-5300. 

If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or get to the nearest emergency room.