Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide, and the fifth across the United States, according to the Cleveland Clinic. It occurs when the brain does not get enough blood flow, usually due to a blocked blood vessel or bleeding in the brain. And while it’s most common people older tha n 65, it can happen at younger ages. Other risk factors include smoking, recreational drug use, Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and migraine disorders, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Fortunately, making certain lifestyle choices can help improve your overall health and ward off conditions that can lead to stroke. Health May 7 Doctor reveals 6 symptoms you should never dismiss as ‘normal aging' Health Wellness May 1 Is walking good exercise? Yes, if you do these 5 things, trainers say Neurologist tip of the day: These 7 daily habits reduce stroke risk “Healthy aging and stroke prevention does not come from one decision or act, it comes from the daily rhythm of caring for your body, mind and your overall wellbeing,” Dr. Carolyn D. Brockington, the director of the Stroke Center at Mount Sinai and Mount Sinai Morningside in New York City, tells TODAY.com. The small steps she follows and suggests to her patients include: Exercise: “I go to the gym regularly (at least 3 times/week) and try to take the stairs rather than the elevator or walk to the store rather than take the car,” says Brockington. Keep up with medical appointments: Brockington is sure to schedule her appointments annually and as needed. Monitor your blood pressure: “I have a blood pressure cuff at home and monitor my blood pressure,” says Brockinton. She’s sure to use the same arm every time she checks it. Eat a healthy diet: Like everyone else, Brockington enjoys a treat and indulgent foods, but she prioritizes nutrient-dense picks most of the time. Get restorative sleep: “I try to maintain good sleep habits,” says Brockington. Cut back your screen time: It’s a hard one, but Brockington says she’ll make sure to disconnect from her devices and give her mind a break. This frees up time for “reading, relaxation and meditation,” she says. Maintain social connections: “I reach out on a regular basis to friends and family to try to maintain a healthy social network,” she says. Doing so keeps neural pathways healthy, boosts her memory and activates attention, TODAY.com previously reported. Why it matters Preventing stroke primarily means preventing the illnesses and conditions that make stroke more likely, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The leading causes of stroke are high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity and diabetes, according to the CDC. One in every three adults in the country has at least one of these conditions. Not all strokes cause permanent health effects, though having a stroke at all increases your risk of another one. For people who do experience long-term impacts, according to the American Stroke Association, these can include paralysis, sensory changes, speech and language problems, struggles with memory and thinking, vision problems, personality changes and more. How to get started Work toward being consistent. “The most effective lifestyle prevention strategies are things we can practice every day, and our small steps will truly add up,” says Brockington. By prioritizing your overall health and working with your physicians to look after it as best you can, you can reduce your chances of experiencing this medical emergency, says the CDC. This story first appeared on TODAY.com. More from TODAY: How to give your immune system a boost: Flu shot, protein, more Should breakfast, lunch or dinner be your biggest meal? Dietitian reveals the answer Doctor shares 6 easy heart-healthy swaps for dessert, snacks and more ...read more read less