The biological mechanisms of stroke
Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood on the blood vessels as it circulates. High blood pressure means that the excessive force of blood flow can damage the vessels.
Cholesterol levels, particularly LDL cholesterol, should be below 1.6g/l. To reduce the risk of stroke, it is advisable to have this level checked every 5 years.
The two molecules most responsible for transporting cholesterol are LDL and HDL. LDL carries cholesterol to the cells, while HDL collects peripheral cholesterol and can return it to the liver. If more cholesterol is transported by LDL than is needed by the cells, the unused LDL is deposited on the walls of the blood vessels, forming plaques that reduce the diameter, leading to an ischaemic stroke. HDL, on the other hand, “cleanses” the blood vessels.
Smoking doubles the risk of ischaemic stroke.