A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted, either by a blocked blood vessel (ischemic stroke) or by bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). This deprives brain cells of oxygen and nutrients, leading to cell death and potential brain damage, disability, or death. While often associated with older age, stroke can affect individuals across the entire lifespan.
Stroke at Different Ages
Stroke risk generally increases with age, doubling each decade after 55. Older adults experience a higher frequency of strokes, with ischemic strokes being the most common type. Hemorrhagic strokes also occur, often linked to uncontrolled high blood pressure.
Strokes are increasingly observed in younger populations, with approximately 10-15% occurring in adults aged 18-50. While traditional risk factors contribute, younger adults may also experience strokes due to causes like cervical artery dissection, autoimmune disorders, or patent foramen ovale (PFO). Illicit drug use and estrogen-containing contraceptives can also increase risk.
Though rare, stroke can occur in children and infants, affecting an estimated 2.5 to 13 per 100,000 annually. Causes in pediatric cases differ from adults, including congenital heart defects, blood disorders like sickle cell disease, and infections such as meningitis or chickenpox. Ischemic strokes are most common in children, but hemorrhagic strokes occur at a comparable rate.
Contributing Factors to Stroke Risk
Factors contributing to stroke risk are either modifiable through lifestyle changes and medical management, or non-modifiable. Modifiable risk factors are important because addressing them can significantly reduce stroke incidence. High blood pressure is the most important modifiable risk factor, directly linked to stroke.
Other modifiable factors include high cholesterol, diabetes, and lifestyle choices such as smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet. Smoking, for instance, nearly doubles the risk for ischemic stroke. Excessive alcohol consumption can also raise blood pressure and contribute to stroke risk.
Non-modifiable risk factors are those that cannot be changed. These include age, a family history of stroke, and certain racial or ethnic backgrounds. For instance, stroke risk increases with age, and a family history of early stroke increases individual risk. While these factors are beyond an individual’s control, managing modifiable risks remains crucial for overall stroke prevention.
Recognizing the Signs of Stroke
Recognizing the signs of a stroke quickly is important for timely medical intervention, as rapid treatment can significantly improve outcomes. A widely used acronym to help identify common stroke symptoms is FAST: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services. If one side of the face droops or is numb when smiling, it can signal a stroke.
Arm weakness is another sign, where one arm may drift downward when a person tries to raise both arms. Speech difficulties, such as slurred words or trouble understanding speech, are common indicators. The “Time” component emphasizes that if any symptoms are observed, immediate medical attention is necessary. Other symptoms can include sudden severe headache, sudden vision changes, dizziness, or loss of balance.
Reducing Your Stroke Risk
Adopting a healthy lifestyle is a primary way to reduce stroke risk across all age groups. This includes a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting saturated fats, trans fats, and sodium. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, for example, lowers blood pressure, a significant stroke risk factor. Regular physical activity, such as 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, also helps by lowering blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Managing existing medical conditions is important for stroke prevention. Controlling high blood pressure through medication and lifestyle changes is crucial, as is managing diabetes and high cholesterol. Regular medical check-ups allow healthcare providers to monitor these conditions and assess overall stroke risk. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol consumption are impactful steps, as both damage blood vessels and increase stroke risk.