In recent years, the rise in stroke cases among young adults has made it crucial to recognize its common symptoms. Many believe that strokes are only common at the older adults, but that’s not the case.
Certain factors that contribute to this condition at the young population include unhealthy lifestyle, chronic stress, recreational drug use, birth control pills that include estrogen, as well as the increasing prevalence of conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.
The American Heart Association reports that the number of strokes at young adults have increased 40 percent in recent years. In fact, around 10-15 percent of strokes affect people aged 18 to 45.
“While the medical community has made significant improvements to reduce the severity and complications of strokes with early interventions, these efforts are of limited value if patients do not recognize stroke symptoms,” Dr. Khurram Nasir, chief of the division of cardiovascular prevention and wellness at Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Center in Texas, said.
“Time is critical for treating stroke. The earlier people recognize symptoms, the better their chances are to reduce long-term disability from stroke,”he added.
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or disrupted.
Strokes can cause brain damage and death. In fact, stroke is the leading cause of disability worldwide.
Some symptoms of stroke at young adults include:
1. Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
Sudden weakness, numbness, or tingling, especially on one side of the body, is one of the most common and easily recognizable signs of a stroke. This can include the face, arm, or leg. This symptom occurs without warning. For example, one side of the face might droop, or a person might not be able to lift one arm. This is due to the interruption of blood flow to certain areas of the brain that control movement and sensation.
In young adults, this symptom is often overlooked and misattributed to fatigue, nervousness, and nerve problems. However, even temporary numbness is a symptom of something potentially life-threatening, such as a transient ischemic attack, or mini-stroke.
The important point I want to emphasize is this: If one side of the body feels “off,” weak, or numb, don’t wait. This is a medical emergency.
2. Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
Another major symptom of a stroke is difficulty speaking or understanding speech. This manifests itself through slurred speech, confusion, and inability to construct sentences. An individual with a stroke will know exactly what to say but will not be able to get the words out. Alternatively, if they experience a stroke, they will not be able to understand what is being said to them.
This is due to the fact that a stroke affects the language centers of the brain, especially the left hemisphere. At times, the speech may be very slow and nonsensical. This symptom is usually misdiagnosed in younger individuals, especially if it is not related to other major symptoms. It is usually misdiagnosed as stress, intoxication, and even panic attacks. However, it is important to remember that sudden confusion and difficulty with speech is a major symptom of a stroke and should not be ignored. If an individual is suddenly unable to communicate properly, then it is a clear indication that the brain is not receiving enough oxygen.
3. An abrupt, intense headache
A severe headache, described as the “worst headache of your life,” is a possible stroke symptom, specifically a hemorrhagic stroke, where there is bleeding in the brain. However, unlike other headaches, this one strikes suddenly and might be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or altered consciousness.
The problem with the symptom, though, is that young adults might brush it off as a migraine or a headache caused by stress. However, the main difference lies in the fact that the headache strikes suddenly and feels unusual compared to other headaches.
Medical experts emphasize that when it comes to a severe headache without any known cause, it should always be taken seriously, especially when there are other symptoms such as dizziness and vision difficulties.
So, if the headache comes out of nowhere, it is not something to “sleep off.”
4. Dizziness and loss of balance
According to the Mayo Clinic, sudden dizziness, difficulty walking, and coordination problems can be signs that a person is experiencing a stroke in the part of the brain that controls balance and coordination, like the cerebellum. This is where the person feels like the room is spinning around them. This is especially problematic since this symptom is easily misdiagnosed and confused with other, not-so-serious problems, especially among younger patients. These include vertigo, dehydration, and fatigue.
However, this symptom will usually be sudden and severe and will be accompanied by other signs and symptoms. This is why coordination problems can make even the simplest tasks, like walking straight or holding objects, unexpectedly difficult. Dizziness that is sudden and severe should always be treated like an emergency.
5. Vision issues
Another vital but sometimes ignored symptom of a stroke is vision problems. These may include blurred vision, double vision, sudden blindness in one or both eyes, or increased sensitivity to light. There are instances where a person may lose part of their visual field but may not be aware of it.
This happens because a stroke can affect areas in the brain used for processing visual information. Unlike other changes in vision, which may develop gradually, vision changes due to a stroke are sudden and come unexpectedly.
Young adults may ignore these symptoms as eye strain due to too much time spent looking at computer screens or fatigue. However, sudden changes in vision, especially when accompanied by headache or dizziness, are symptoms that cannot be ignored. Prompt medical attention can greatly decrease the possibility of permanent damage.
Conclusion
The symptoms of strokes in young adults are often ignored as they do not fit into the general perception of people who are prone to strokes. Most people associate strokes with old people, but there is sufficient evidence to suggest that strokes can happen to young people as well. These symptoms may include sudden weakness or difficulty in speaking, severe headache or dizziness, or changes in vision. These symptoms may seem minor or may go unnoticed, but they may actually be a sign of a significant interruption in the flow of blood to the brain. It is crucial to take these symptoms seriously and act quickly. This can make a significant difference in terms of improving health and reducing the risk of complications or disabilities. Treatments for strokes are time-sensitive, and delays may result in permanent damage or disabilities.
Don’t forget to listen to your body. If you feel anything unusual or out of place, it is better to seek medical attention than to ignore these symptoms. Being aware and taking quick action can literally save a life.
*Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you experience symptoms of a stroke, seek immediate medical attention. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any health concerns.
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