Strokes in young people are becoming increasingly common, and it's a growing problem that needs attention. One thing Cara Zizzo remembers about her stroke is feeling like she was having a heart attack. She was only 28 years old at the time, and her symptoms were so sudden and severe that she didn't even have time to call for help. It wasn't until later, when her car trunks lock shed wouldn't open, that she realized something was seriously wrong.
Doctors hypothesized that Zizzo's stroke was caused by a small hole in her heart that had gone undetected. They also discovered blood clots in her legs, which may have contributed to the stroke. What's shocking is that Zizzo didn't learn about her stroke risk until after it happened – despite being otherwise healthy with no family history of strokes. This highlights the importance of screening tests, believing that you're not at risk just because you're young or feeling fine can be a big mistake.
Discovering the Unsettling Rise of Strokes in Youth
Strokes have always been commonly associated with older people, high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. However, recent studies have shown that young people are increasingly becoming victims of this debilitating medical condition. This unsettling rise in strokes among young people has become a major cause for concern.
A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows full content that between 2003 and 2012, the number of hospitalizations for strokes among young people rose by as much as 44%. Even more alarming is the fact that recurring stroke cases are also on the rise among youths. This trend points to a need for increased awareness and action towards preventing strokes among young people.
The reasons behind this increase in strokes among young people are still being studied. However, it is important that everyone, regardless of age, takes steps towards reducing their risk factors for strokes. By leading healthy lifestyles that involve regular exercise, healthy diets, reducing alcohol intake and eliminating smoking habits - we can help reduce the prevalence of strokes in our communities.
1. Common symptoms of stroke
Stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Sudden typical symptoms include numbness or weakness on one side of the body, body signs like drooping arm or leg, and lower eyelid that droops. Patients may also experience dribbling mouth and slurred speech, difficulty finding words, and understanding speech.
Patients have reported suddenly blurred vision or sight confusion. Simple checks like the facial weakness test means checking if one side of the face drooped, the arm weakness check means asking to raise both arms and see if one drifts downward, and the speech problems check means asking to repeat a simple sentence. It's essential to note that previously listed signs occur commonly in people above 75s age group; however, the risk continues as age arteries commonly harden with years or family history of stroke increases the risk possibly. High blood pressure, diabetes tend to cause similar problems too.
It's important to know that some ethnic backgrounds like Asian, African or African-Caribbean communities have a greater risk of stroke due to medical conditions like high blood pressure. Keeping track of your health regularly with brand names prescribed by your doctor can help reduce your risk for stroke significantly.
Why Stroke is Increasingly Occurring in Young Adults
Strokes were once considered a health problem affecting only the elderly. However, recent reports reveal that stroke is becoming increasingly prevalent in young adults. The reasons behind this trend are multifactorial, but some of the primary culprits include bad lifestyle choices, rising obesity rates and chronic diseases.
Young people are living longer, but they're not necessarily living healthier. In fact, many young adults engage in unhealthy behaviors like smoking, drinking, and eating poorly. These habits can lead to obesity increases and high blood pressure - both significant risk factors for strokes. Additionally, sedentary lifestyle rates have risen dramatically among young people over the past few decades.
Obesity causes inflammation in the body and contributes to high blood pressure; two major stroke risk factors. Overweight and obese individuals also tend to have unhealthy weight gain which further compounds these issues. Therefore, it's essential for young adults to start making healthy lifestyle changes by incorporating physical activity into their daily routine and eating a balanced diet. Ultimately, taking proactive steps towards preventing stroke can help ensure a healthier future for all.
Spotting Signs of Stroke for Young Adults: A Guide
Stroke is a medical emergency that can happen to anyone, including young adults. It occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted due to a blockage or bleeding in the brain. The longer the brain goes without oxygen and nutrients, the more damage it suffers. Therefore, spotting the signs of stroke early and seeking medical attention immediately is crucial.
The symptoms of stroke may vary depending on which part of the brain is affected. However, some common signs to look out for include sudden loss or weakness in one arm, leg or side of the body, eyes sudden vision loss or double vision, face drooping on one side, speech slurred or difficulty speaking more than a short sentence correctly. If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately.
It's important to note that strokes can happen to young adults too, regardless of age and health status. Risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity can increase the chances of having a stroke at an early age. Therefore, it's essential to pay attention to your body and seek medical attention as soon as possible if you suspect a stroke has occurred. Remember that time is brain – getting to the hospital immediately could potentially save your life or someone else's.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are strokes increasing in young people?
Strokes are increasing in young people due to a rise in risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, and smoking, as well as advancements in medical technology allowing for better detection.
Can a blood clot in the brain lead to a stroke?
Yes, a blood clot in the brain can lead to a stroke by blocking blood flow to parts of the brain, causing damage or death of brain cells. Timely medical intervention is essential to prevent long-term disabilities and complications.
Are more young people having strokes in South Carolina?
There has been a recent increase in strokes among younger people in South Carolina, possibly due to lifestyle factors such as smoking and unhealthy eating habits. It is important to be aware of the risk factors and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms occur.
Why do young people get strokes?
Young people can get strokes due to various factors such as lifestyle choices, genetic predisposition, and underlying health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. It's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and get regular check-ups to prevent stroke.
What are the risk factors for stroke in young people?
Some risk factors for stroke in young people include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and heart disease. It's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and manage any underlying health conditions to reduce your risk of stroke.
Sources
- https://www.self.com/story/strokes-in-young-people
- https://www.steadyhealth.com/articles/stroke-in-young-people#:~:text=Stroke%20in%20young%20people%201%20The%20Stroke%20Association.,stroke.%20...%203%20Common%20symptoms%20of%20stroke.%20
- https://lonestarneurology.net/stroke/why-young-people-have-strokes/
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