While strokes are often associated with older adults, it’s important to know that anyone, regardless of age, can experience one. In fact, the American Heart Association reports a concerning rise in strokes among individuals under 50. Over the past few decades, stroke diagnoses have increased by 40% in young adults in the U.S. Shockingly, 10 to 15% of strokes occur in people aged 18 to 50.
Several factors have contributed to this increase in stroke cases among younger adults. Along with common risk factors like high blood pressure, blood clots, and diabetes, young people face additional risks such as genetics, pregnancy, and lifestyle choices. Obesity, smoking, binge drinking, drug use, and high cholesterol levels also contribute to the problem. One particularly high-risk group is individuals with sickle cell disease, as nearly a quarter of those with this condition suffer a stroke before turning 4 years old.
Here are five signs to watch for that could indicate a stroke in young adults:
1. Intense Headaches
An abrupt, severe headache—something unlike any you’ve experienced before—could signal a stroke. This may indicate a blood vessel rupture in the brain, known as a hemorrhagic stroke. This type of bleeding can quickly lead to neurological damage, so it’s critical to seek immediate medical help. While occasional headaches are common, sudden, debilitating pain warrants a doctor’s visit.
2. Numbness or Weakness
A sudden feeling of numbness, weakness, or tingling, particularly on one side of the body, can be a stroke warning. This happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked, causing that area’s brain cells to die. Symptoms will vary depending on which part of the brain is affected. For example, a stroke in the area responsible for motor functions can lead to weakness or even paralysis on one side of the body.
3. Difficulty Speaking or Understanding
If you find yourself suddenly struggling to speak clearly or understand what others are saying, it could be a sign of stroke. Damage to the brain’s language centers from interrupted blood flow can lead to slurred speech, difficulty forming words, or even complete loss of speech. These symptoms can sometimes be subtle, so any noticeable change in speech should prompt a visit to your doctor.
4. Vision Problems
Vision disturbances such as double vision, blurred vision, or sudden loss of sight in one or both eyes can indicate a stroke. These issues typically arise when a stroke affects the areas of the brain responsible for processing visual information. For example, an ischemic stroke in the occipital lobe can cause vision loss in one eye or damage to the visual field. It’s essential to seek medical help immediately to prevent further damage to your vision.
5. Loss of Balance and Coordination
Sudden difficulty walking, dizziness, or lack of coordination could be a sign of a stroke. These symptoms occur when the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls balance, is affected. People may find it hard to stand, stumble when walking, or experience vertigo. While these symptoms can be mistaken for an inner ear issue or another less serious problem, it’s crucial to see a doctor to determine the cause and get appropriate treatment.
If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, don’t wait—seek medical attention right away. Recognizing the signs of a stroke early can make all the difference in preventing long-term damage or even saving a life.