A sudden surge in stroke incidence among people under the age of 45 has raised concerns among medical experts worldwide. Lifestyle-related triggers, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, poor sleep patterns, and irregular exercise regimes, are the leading cause of this growing trend. Dr. Vipul Gupta, Director, Neurointervention, Stroke, and Vascular-intervention (SVIN) Unit at
Artemis Hospital in Gurugram, India, notes that brain stroke is the second leading cause of mortality and the leading cause of long-term disability. Therefore, creating awareness about the critical lifestyle changes needed to prevent such calamities is of the utmost importance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why is there a sudden rise in the incidence of stroke among young people?
A: According to Dr Vipul Gupta, Director of the Neurointervention, Stroke and Vascular-intervention Unit at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, the rise is largely due to lifestyle-related triggers such as excessive smoking, alcohol consumption, irregular fitness regimes, and high levels of stress.
Q: What are the common types of strokes among young people?
A: Most young stroke patients have ischemic strokes, which occur when artery-blocking blood clots travel to the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes, which happen when a blood vessel in or near the brain ruptures, also occur in young adults.
Q: Are there any unique risks associated with strokes in younger people?
A: Some young adults may suffer from a condition called patent foramen ovale (PFO), which develops when a hole between the heart's chambers doesn't close during the first few months after birth. Aneurysms, when the blood vessel walls weaken and form bubbles that can rupture, can also occur in young adults.
Q: What are some risk factors that increase the likelihood of stroke among young people?
A: Young adults who have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a family history of stroke are at an increased risk of stroke. Women with migraines who smoke and take birth control pills are also at a higher risk of stroke.
Q: How can we prevent strokes in young people?
A: The best way to prevent strokes is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, limited alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking. Young adults should also be aware of their family history of stroke and manage any underlying health conditions that may increase their risk.
Q: What should you do if you suspect someone is having a stroke?
A: If you suspect that someone is having a stroke, call emergency services immediately. Look for the common signs of a stroke, including weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, sudden vision problems, severe headache, and dizziness or loss of balance.
In conclusion, the rising incidence of stroke among young people is a cause for concern. The lifestyle-related triggers, such as excessive smoking, alcohol consumption, and irregular fitness regimes, are largely responsible for this trend. To prevent strokes, young adults need to maintain a healthy lifestyle and manage any underlying health conditions. It is essential to be aware of the risk factors associated with strokes and to take immediate action if someone exhibits signs of a stroke. With awareness and the right lifestyle choices, strokes can be prevented, and young adults can lead a healthy and fulfilling life.
Publication: The Indian Express
Date: 3rd May 2023
Inputs Shared By: Dr. Vipul Gupta, Director, Neurointervention, Stroke, and Vascular-intervention (SVIN) Unit at Artemis Hospital in Gurugram, Delhi NCR, India