Stroke at a Young Age: A Hidden Threat to Watch Out For!

Stroke is commonly associated with old age, but cases of stroke at a young age are increasing. Stroke at a young age, which occurs in individuals under 45 years old, can cause long-term disability and affect productivity and quality of life.

What is Stroke?

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, causing the death of brain cells within a short period of time. There are two main types of stroke:

- Ischemic Stroke, occurs due to blockage of the brain's blood vessels. This is the most common type of stroke.

- Hemorrhagic Stroke, Caused by the rupture of a blood vessel in the brain, resulting in bleeding.

In addition, there is a condition known as transient ischemic attack (TIA) or “mini-stroke,” which is a temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain that causes temporary stroke symptoms but no permanent damage.

Causes of Stroke at a Young Age

Some factors that can lead to stroke in young individuals include:

1. Health Factors

- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Increases the risk of brain blood vessel damage.

- Diabetes Mellitus: Blood sugar metabolism disorder that can damage blood vessels.

- High Cholesterol: Causes plaque buildup in the arteries which can block blood flow to the brain.

- Heart Disease: Such as arrhythmias (heart rhythm disorders) and heart valve abnormalities that can lead to the formation of blood clots.

- Blood Clotting Disorders: Such as thrombophilia or antiphospholipid syndrome which increases the risk of blood clots forming.

2. Lifestyle Factors

- Smoking: Nicotine and carbon monoxide in cigarettes can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of blood clots.

- Excessive Alcohol Consumption: May increase blood pressure and risk of hemorrhagic stroke.

- Drug Use: Illicit drugs such as cocaine, amphetamines, and methamphetamine can cause dangerous spikes in blood pressure.

- Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes.

3. Genetic and Autoimmune Factors

Family History: If any family member has a history of stroke, one's risk of having a stroke also increases.

Stroke Symptoms to Watch Out for

Some symptoms or signs to look out for to recognize a stroke:

SE: Unsymmetrical smile (leaning to one side).

GE: Movement of one of the limbs is weakened or feels weak.

RA: Slurred speech or sudden inability to speak

KE: Numbness or tingling of half of the body

R : Blindness or blurred vision occurs suddenly.

S : Severe headache that appears suddenly without an obvious cause.

Stroke Prevention at a Young Age

Some steps that can be taken to prevent stroke include:

- Keeping Blood Pressure within normal limits.

- Controlling Blood Sugar and Cholesterol with a healthy diet and exercise.

- Quit Smoking and Avoid Alcohol.

- Exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes a day.

- Maintaining Ideal Body Weight.

- Manage Stress with relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga.

- Have regular health check-ups to detect risk factors early.

Reference:

Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. Riskesdas 2018 National Report. 2019.

MayoClinic. Accessed on 2023. Transient ischemic attack (TIA)