Why Are Strokes on the Rise in Younger Adults?

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain gets blocked or otherwise interrupted. That means that if you have a brain, you’re at risk for stroke. And while people used to think that this brain attack only impacted older adults, an increasing body of research shows that strokes can happen in younger people, too. 

Ultimately, that means you should know the signs of a stroke and how to get stroke care no matter your age. For that, visit David Bolon, MD, and our team at Manhattan Integrative Cardiovascular in Midtown East Manhattan, New York City. He can help you evaluate your personal risk for a stroke and develop a care plan tailored toward stroke prevention. 

First, though, let’s look at why strokes are on the rise in younger populations. 

Why strokes are increasing in younger people

Earlier this year, a study was published that showed an 11% increase in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) strokes. In this type of stroke, blood vessels in your brain rupture. ICH strokes are both deadlier and more likely to cause long-term disability than other types of strokes.

Ultimately, any increase in this particularly dangerous type of stroke is troubling. Even more problematic, though, the study showed that rates of ICH strokes were growing fastest among people under 65. 

While medical experts will undoubtedly dig deeper into the issue, preliminary conclusions link high blood pressure to the rise of ICH strokes in younger adults. And since high blood pressure usually doesn’t present any symptoms until it’s very serious, plenty of young, seemingly healthy Americans are walking around not knowing they have this health condition. 

It’s important to get your blood pressure levels checked every year or two, depending on your age. Dr. Bolon can perform this quick, noninvasive test at our office. 

Watch for the signs of a stroke

This recent study suggests that no matter your age, you should be on the lookout for the signs of a stroke. To help yourself there, you can memorize the acronym BE FAST:

• Balance: Can the person stand and walk normally?

• Eyes: Are they experiencing any vision loss or abnormalities (e.g., double vision)?

• Face: Is either side of the face drooping?

• Arms and legs: Do they have numbness or weakness in any limbs?

• Speech: When they talk, is it slurred? Do they seem confused?

• Time: If the answer is yes, call 911 immediately.

The BE FAST tool is particularly fitting because time is of the essence when it comes to stroke care. Acting fast to get medical attention makes a dramatic difference.

Just because you’re young and feel healthy doesn’t mean you can’t have a stroke. If you notice any of these signs in yourself or a peer, seek emergency medical care right away.

If all of this has you wondering if you’re at risk for a stroke, don’t hesitate to talk to Dr. Bolon. He can evaluate your current state and your family health history to assess your likelihood of a brain attack. To get started, call us at (716) 303-4738 or book your appointment online.