Strokes In Young Adults: What You Need To Know

Strokes are often associated with older people, but they can happen at any age. In fact, according to the American Heart Association, incidents of stroke have increased by 40% among young US adults in recent decades, with approximately 10-15% of strokes occurring in adults aged 18-50. This worrying trend is also reflected in the experiences of 21-year-olds Bella Stephens and Noah Broxmeyer, who both suffered strokes. So, what are the causes and risk factors for strokes in young people, and what signs should you look out for?

Strokes in young people are on the rise

Strokes are increasing among young adults, with a 40% increase in incidents among young US adults over the past few decades. This is a worrying trend, as strokes are a leading cause of death, disability, and hospitalization. While the overall risk remains relatively low for young people, the fact that it is growing is a cause for concern.

Causes of strokes in young people

There are several causes of strokes in young people, and many are similar to those in older adults. These include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Alcohol abuse
• Drug abuse
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Stress
• COVID-19

Additionally, some young people may have rare conditions that predispose them to strokes, such as clotting disorders or holes in the walls of their hearts.

Signs and symptoms of strokes in young people

It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke, as quick treatment increases the chances of preserving brain tissue and lessens the patient's chance of long-term deficits. The acronym BE FAST can be used to recognize the signs of a stroke:

• Balance: sudden loss of balance or coordination
• Eyes: sudden changes in vision, including loss of vision in one or both eyes, or double vision
• Face: sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face
• Arms: sudden weakness in one arm or leg
• Speech: sudden slurred speech or difficulty speaking or understanding words
• Time: Call 911 immediately if someone is experiencing any of these symptoms

Other symptoms that may accompany a stroke include:

• Numbness on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking
• Severe, sudden headache

Preventing strokes in young people

While some risk factors for strokes are out of an individual's control, there are still many things that can be done to reduce the risk. Simple lifestyle changes can have significant benefits, including:

• Exercise: 30-60 minutes of moderate daily activity can help with high blood pressure, excess weight, and stress
• Healthy eating: reducing salt and saturated fats in the diet can help control high blood pressure and lower cholesterol
• Quitting smoking: smokers are twice as likely to die from a stroke as non-smokers due to the narrowing of the arteries
• Reducing alcohol consumption: excessive alcohol consumption can cause hypertension, A-fib, diabetes, overweight and liver disease, all of which increase the risk of stroke

Risk factors for stroke in young people

While strokes are more common in older people, they can happen at any age. According to the American Heart Association, incidents of stroke have increased by 40% among young US adults over the past few decades. Approximately 10-15% of strokes occur in adults aged 18-50, and there has been a 44% increase in young adults being admitted to hospital for strokes over the past 10 years.

Risk factors

The risk factors for stroke in young adults are similar to those for older people and include:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Heart disease
• Drug and alcohol abuse
• Pregnancy
• Genetic factors
• Blood clotting disorders
• Migraines
• Patent foramen ovale (a hole in the heart)
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Sickle cell disease

Lifestyle factors

Lifestyle habits such as smoking, heavy drug use, and a poor diet can increase the risk of stroke at a young age. Maintaining a healthy diet and weight can help to reduce the risk of stroke, as can regular exercise.

Signs and symptoms of a stroke

Strokes can happen at any age, and they occur when blood flow to the brain is cut off. This can be due to a blood clot (the most common cause) or bleeding in the brain.

Face

• Drooping or weakness on one side of the face
• Numbness

Arms

• Weakness or numbness in one arm
• Difficulty raising both arms

Speech

Slurred speech or difficulty speaking or understanding words

If you observe any of the above symptoms, it is crucial to call 911 immediately. Stroke is a medical emergency, and every minute counts in ensuring the best chance of recovery.

Other symptoms of a stroke include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, or difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination
• Severe headache with no known cause
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Memory problems
• Fatigue

Preventing strokes in young people

Strokes can happen at any age, and the number of young people experiencing strokes is on the rise. While some risk factors are beyond your control, there are plenty of things you can do to minimise your risk. Here are some ways to reduce the chances of having a stroke.

Exercise Regularly

Engaging in regular physical activity can help lower your risk of having a stroke. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as a brisk walk, three times a week. For more significant benefits, increase the duration to 60 minutes of moderate daily activity. This can include activities like riding a stationary bike, water aerobics, or sports. Exercise helps to manage high blood pressure, excess weight, and stress, all of which are risk factors for strokes.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Adopting a heart-healthy diet is crucial for stroke prevention. Reduce your intake of salt and saturated fats, as these contribute to high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which are leading causes of strokes. Consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and choose foods low in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol. This will help maintain a healthy weight and lower your risk of cardiovascular issues.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is a significant risk factor for strokes, as it narrows the arteries, making blood clots more likely to form. Smokers are twice as likely to suffer a fatal stroke as non-smokers. If you don't smoke, don't start, and if you do smoke, quitting will significantly reduce your risk of having a stroke. Your doctor can provide guidance and support to help you quit.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for strokes. To reduce your risk, limit your alcohol intake. Men should have no more than two drinks per day, and women should have no more than one drink per day. Consider having alcohol-free days and choosing low or no-alcohol alternatives. Additionally, find healthier ways to manage stress instead of relying on alcohol.

Manage Medical Conditions

If you have any underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes, work closely with your doctor to manage and control these conditions. Regular check-ups and medical tests can help identify issues early on, and your doctor can recommend lifestyle changes or medications to lower your risk of stroke.

What to do if you think someone is having a stroke

Strokes can happen at any age, and they require quick action. If you think someone is having a stroke, use the acronym F.A.S.T. to recognise the signs and act quickly:

• Face: Check if their face is drooping on one side. Is there a sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face?
• Arms: Are they experiencing weakness or numbness in one arm or leg, especially on one side of the body? Do they have difficulty raising both arms?
• Speech: Is their speech slurred? Are they having trouble speaking or understanding speech?
• Time: If you observe any of the above signs, it is crucial to act fast. Call emergency services immediately. Do not drive to the hospital or ask someone else to drive you. Call an ambulance so that medical personnel can begin treatment as soon as possible.

In addition to the F.A.S.T. acronym, there are other signs that may indicate someone is having a stroke:

• Balance: Are they experiencing a sudden loss of balance or coordination?
• Eyes: Are there any sudden changes in their vision, such as loss of vision in one or both eyes, or double vision?
• Headache: Are they complaining of a sudden, severe headache with no known cause?

Remember, a quick response is critical in the event of a stroke. Do not wait to see if the symptoms subside on their own. Call emergency services immediately if you suspect someone is having a stroke.

Frequently asked questions