Rising stroke rates among young people: Lifestyle and stress factors | Bangalore News

BENGALURU: Once considered a concern for the elderly, stroke is now increasingly affecting young and healthy people. Hospitals across the city are reporting an alarming surge in young stroke patients, a trend that was virtually non-existent just a few years ago. Doctors believe this is due to a combination of lifestyle choices, increased stress, and an increase in chronic health conditions.
Dr Raghuram G, Deputy Head of Neurosurgery at Fortis Hospital, said: “Currently, two young people are seen suffering a stroke every week. The increase in strokes in their 30s is alarming. “This is probably due to modern lifestyles.” Ingestion of junk food and unhealthy fats, as well as demanding work schedules and lack of sleep are the main culprits, as well as strokes due to an increased tendency for blood to clot, which can lead to blood clots, since the COVID-19 pandemic. We have also noticed an increase in Formed within cerebral blood vessels. ”
Just five years ago, strokes were rare in young patients and were most often associated with a specific medical condition, such as lupus or a genetic disorder.
Dr Santosh NS, consultant neurologist at Manipal Hospitals, pointed out that strokes occurring before the age of 40, referred to as ‘juvenile strokes’, currently account for 10-15% of all stroke cases. “One common cause is arterial dissection, where a blood vessel in the neck ruptures due to abnormal posture or movement, such as turning the head during a barber’s visit,” he explained.
These young stroke patients face distinct risk factors that require different approaches to treatment and prevention. Modifiable risks, such as smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke, can significantly increase the likelihood of stroke. “It is important to avoid second-hand smoke,” Dr. Santosh stressed. On an average, Manipal Hospital sees two to three young patients a week.
Dr Amit Kulkarni, Senior Consultant and Leader of Neurology and Stroke at Sakura World Hospital, elaborated on the worrying trend, saying, “Strokes are now occurring in patients as young as late 20s to early 30s. Early-onset hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol are prevalent, and lifestyle choices and obesity, often caused by a sedentary lifestyle, can lead to conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, leading to high blood pressure. can worsen and cause a stroke.”
According to Sakura World Hospital, one in four stroke patients are in the younger age group.
maintain a healthy balance
Tuesday, October 29th is designated as World Stroke Day. Here are some preventive measures you can take to stay healthy.
What to do
— Exercise regularly (30 minutes a day)
— Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
— Prioritize 7-8 hours of sleep
— Stay hydrated
— Limit screen time
— Practice stress reduction techniques
— Schedule regular health checks
What not to do
— Skip meals
— Excess sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats
— Neglecting physical activity
– smoking
— excessive alcohol
— sacrifice sleep
— Neglecting mental health
Source: Dr. Raghuram G | Added by Director of Neurosurgery, Fortis Hospital

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