Stroke is increasingly recognized as a major health issue in younger adults, including those in their thirties and forties. Risk factors include migraine with aura and untreated sleep apnea. Recommended steps include regular activity, blood pressure checks and quick action on symptoms.
Stroke is increasingly recognized as a major health issue in younger adults, including those in their thirties and forties. Younger people can be affected by stroke, especially if they have undiagnosed or poorly controlled underlying risk factors.
Risk factors
Migraine with aura has a clearer association with ischemic stroke than migraine without aura. Persistent, heavy snoring may signal obstructive sleep apnea, and untreated sleep apnea is associated with an increased likelihood of stroke. Dr. Bibi says smoking, excessive drinking, lack of physical activity, poor sleep and stress can increase the risk of vascular disease.
Lowering the risk
Stroke risk can be lowered by checking blood pressure regularly, controlling diabetes and cholesterol, not smoking, keeping a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, frequent movement breaks and regular walking. The article also recommends limiting salt and alcohol, avoiding tobacco, and having regular blood pressure checks, alongside about 150 minutes of moderate activity a week.
Recognizing symptoms
The article recommends the BE FAST method (Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech, Time) for recognizing stroke symptoms and seeking immediate medical help. Even if symptoms disappear within minutes, urgent assessment is essential because a transient ischaemic attack can precede a major stroke.
