There are several underlying causes of a stroke and several risk factors that can predispose someone to a stroke. The etiology of a stroke is a complex combination of genetics, environment, and lifestyle factors. Some of these underlying causes and risk factors are modifiable and some are not. This means that the modifiable risk factors can be controlled/changed, while non modifiable risk factors cannot be changed. 

Some common underlying causes and risk factors include: 

Non Modifiable Risk Factors 

Genetics/Family History:  

A family history of stroke increases the risk, suggesting a genetic predisposition to conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia, which all elevate stroke risk.

Age/Gender:

The risk of a stroke increases after around the age of 55. The older you are, the more you are at risk for a stroke. Gender also plays a role in increased risk of stroke. According to research, men are at higher risk of having a stroke compared to woman. 

Previous History of Stroke:
Having history of having a previous stroke can increase the risk of unfortunately having another stroke. 

Modifiable Risk Factors 

Obesity & Physical Inactivity:

Having excess body fat is associated with increasing the likelihood of high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, which are all risk factors of a stroke. Having no to little physical activity can also increase these risk factors and have an overall impact on well being.  Exercise is key to preventing diseases and important for overall health.

Atherosclerosis:

 A condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, which hardens and narrows them. This can lead to the plaques rupturing. 

Hypertension: 

Chronic high blood pressure can damage blood vessel walls, which can lead to rupturing or narrowing. 

Diabetes: 

Having high blood sugar levels can contribute to vascular inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, leading to atherosclerosis and increasing the risk of clot formation and stroke.

Hyperlipidemia: 

Having high cholesterol can lead to cholesterol accumulating in the arteries which could lead to plaque formation in the arteries. This can impede blood flow in the brain.

Smoking: 

Smoking can lead to vascular inflammation and cause damage to the lining of the blood vessels and/or increase clot formation.