Stroke can affect people of all ages, even including children. However, the risk of stroke increases with older ages (40 years old and above). At each age, stroke is more common in men than women. What is more, people who are obese or smokers have higher risk of developing a stroke or another.

These following factors could not be ignored either:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease, including some abnormal heart rhythms
• Heavy alcohol use
• High blood cholesterol
• High blood pressure

Previous stroke like a transient ischemic attack (TIA) is worthy of a special attention. A TIA is a mini stroke short-lived episode (less than 24 hours) of temporary impairment to the brain that is caused by a loss of blood supply. TIAs can occur once, multiple times, or precede a permanent stroke. A transient ischemic attack should be considered an emergency because there is no guarantee that the situation will resolve and function will return.