High Blood Pressure, Transient Ischemic Attack, and Stroke

Topic Overview

High blood pressure (hypertension) is considered the most important and most treatable risk factor for transient ischemic attack (TIA) and stroke. Proper treatment of high blood pressure can reduce the chance of having a TIA or stroke.

High blood pressure increases the pressure inside arteries, causing damageClick here to see an illustration..

  • Excessive pressure on the walls of vessels speeds up hardening and narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis).
  • Aneurysms in the brain may develop, which can lead to a stroke and bleeding inside the brain (hemorrhagic stroke) if an aneurysm ruptures. Aneurysms are often caused by a defect present in the muscular wall of an artery since birth.

High blood pressure can be controlled with medicines and changes in lifestyle. For more information, see the topic High Blood Pressure.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerRichard D. Zorowitz, MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Last RevisedJanuary 7, 2011
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: January 7, 2011
Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Richard D. Zorowitz, MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

© 1995-, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

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



Topic Contents

    Healthwise. For every health decision