admins We often associate stroke with the elderly. However, this debilitating condition can occur at any age, including young adults. There has been an alarming increase in young adults experiencing stroke in recent years.
10%-15% of all stroke patients are aged 18-50 years.
Understanding stroke in young adults is crucial as stroke symptoms in young adults, its causes, risk factors, risk associated, and prevention strategies can differ from those in older populations.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke, also known as a brain attack or cerebrovascular accident, occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is reduced or blocked, preventing brain tissues from getting oxygen and nutrients.
A stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention, and prompt action can significantly reduce brain damage and other complications. There are three types of stroke:
- Ischemic stroke: This is the most common type of stroke, accounting for 87% of total cases. It occurs when a blood clot or plaque blocks blood flow in blood vessels.
- Hemorrhagic stroke: These types of stroke are less common but more severe. They occur when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and causes bleeding in the brain. This can happen due to conditions like arteriovenous malformation or aneurysm.
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA): Also known as mini-stroke, TIA occurs when the blood flow in the brain is disrupted or blocked temporarily. The normal flow of blood resumes after a short period.
Symptoms of Stroke in Young Adults
Generally, the symptoms and early signs of stroke in youth are similar to those in older people. The common symptoms of stroke include:
- Sudden numbness or weakness in legs, arms, and face, especially on one side of the body
- Trouble speaking
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Loss of balance
- Lack of coordination
Causes of Stroke in Young Adults
In older adults, strokes are often attributed to age-related conditions like atherosclerosis – the thickening or hardening of a blood vessel caused by plaque buildup in its inner lining.
However, stroke causes in youth can be more diverse, including blood disorders, genetic factors, infections, and substance abuse. The main causes of stroke in young adults include:
- Atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis is the buildup of fats, cholesterol, or other substances in the artery supplying blood to an area of the brain, narrowing the blood vessels and increasing the risk of clot formation. While the condition is more common in older adults, it can also affect young adults, especially if they have a family history of the condition.
- Cardiomyopathy: Some young adults may also suffer from cardiomyopathy, a condition in which the heart muscles become weak and cannot pump enough blood. This can lead to the formation of blood clots that may travel to the brain and cause stroke.
- Hypertension: During hypertension, circulating blood will exert high pressure against the walls of the arteries, making them more susceptible to blockages or ruptures.
- Obesity: Obesity is a growing concern among young adults and is strongly linked to the risk of stroke. Excess body weight can lead to diabetes, hypertension, and other risk factors that can increase stroke risk.
- Genetic factors: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to stroke and conditions that can increase the risk of stroke, such as hypertension and diabetes.
- Blood disorders: Some people develop or inherit conditions like thrombophilia, which can increase the likelihood of developing blood clots, contributing to the risk of stroke.
- Poor health habits: Most strokes in young adults are related to poor health habits, such as a sedentary lifestyle, a diet high in processed food and saturated fats, excessive alcohol, and smoking.
- Drug abuse: Drug abuse, especially substances like cocaine and amphetamines, can lead to strokes in young adults by causing blood vessel constriction and increasing blood pressure.
Risks and Complications in Young Adults
A stroke can sometimes cause temporary or permanent disability, depending on the area and level of damage to the brain. Complications of stroke may include:
Loss of muscle movement or paralysis
One of stroke’s most immediate and visible complications is the loss of muscle movement or paralysis. This can affect one side of the body or, in severe cases, both sides. This can be devastating for young adults as it may impact their ability to work, pursue hobbies, or maintain their independence.
Difficulty talking or swallowing
Strokes can also affect the muscles responsible for speech and swallowing. An individual may experience difficulty in articulating words or swallowing food and liquids. This can lead to social and emotional challenges, making communication and nutrition a daily struggle.
Memory loss
Memory loss is another common complication. Stroke survivors may have difficulty remembering recent events, recognizing faces, or recalling important information.
Emotional problems
Strokes can take a toll on a person’s emotional well-being. People who experience a stroke may develop depression, anxiety, and mood swings. Adjusting to a new reality and potential physical and cognitive changes can lead to emotional distress.
Pain
Numbness, pain, or unusual sensations can occur in the parts of the body affected by stroke. Some individuals may also experience chronic pain after a stroke due to nerve damage or changes in muscle tone.
Changes in behavior
Stroke can lead to behavioral changes in young adults. These changes might include impulsivity, irritability, or a lack of inhibition. They may also require help in performing daily chores.
Cognitive impairment
Beyond memory loss, individuals may face more significant cognitive impairments following a stroke. This can include language comprehension, problem-solving, decision-making, and multitasking difficulties.
Stroke Prevention Strategies
Diet and Nutrition Recommendations
Consume a balanced, heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Also, reduce the intake of sodium and saturated fat. Here are some dietary tips to follow:
- Limit processed and fast foods, often high in unhealthy fats and sodium.
- Choose lean protein sources, such as poultry, fish, and beans, instead of fatty cuts of meat.
- Increase fiber intake by incorporating whole grains, legumes, and fiber-rich fruits and vegetables into your meals.
- Monitor and manage your portion sizes to maintain a healthy weight.
Incorporate Physical Activities
Regular physical activity is crucial for stroke prevention. Aim for 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity or 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activities every week. The benefits of physical activities include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Managing hypertension and cholesterol levels
- Improving heart health and blood circulation,
- Reducing the risk of developing diabetes
Smoking and Alcohol Cessation
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are significant risk factors for strokes. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake are essential steps in stroke prevention.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can lead to hypertension and other health issues that can increase the risk of stroke. Effective stress management techniques like meditation, mindfulness, yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, and physical exercise can help manage stress effectively.
Medications and Treatment Options
If you have a stroke or transient ischemic attack, your doctor may recommend medications to help reduce the risk of another stroke. The medications may include:
- Anti-platelet drugs: Platelets cause the blood to form clots. Anti-platelet drugs make platelets less sticky, making it difficult to form clots.
- Anticoagulants: In some cases, individuals may be required to take blood-thinning medications to reduce the risk of clot formation.
- Blood pressure medication: If high blood pressure is a risk factor, you may be required to take medication to lower blood pressure.
While stroke may be less common in young adults, the number of cases is increasing at an alarming rate. By understanding the causes and risk factors of stroke and making suitable lifestyle adjustments, young adults can reduce their susceptibility to strokes and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Experiencing signs and symptoms of stroke?
Seek the expertise of our Neurologists in Patiala for world-class care and prevention. Your health is our priority – take the first step toward stroke prevention today.
What Precautions Should a Young Adult With a Chronic Health Condition Like Diabetes Take to Prevent Stroke?
A young adult with a chronic health condition, like diabetes and hypertension, should prioritise effective management of their condition, as this can significantly reduce the risk of stroke. They should also adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and managing risk factors to prevent stroke.
Can Anxiety Cause a Stroke?
Anxiety doesn’t cause a stroke directly but can indirectly contribute to stroke risks. Prolonged and severe anxiety may lead to behaviours that increase the risk of stroke, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor dietary choices, and high blood pressure. Additionally, anxiety can have physiological effects on the body, including elevated blood pressure, a known stroke risk factor.
