Stroke is a major global health issue, causing significant death and disability.
In Ireland alone, approximately 7,500 people experience a stroke each year, with 2,000 fatalities and around 30,000 individuals living with stroke-related disabilities.
A recent study from the National University of Ireland sheds light on potential triggers for stroke, revealing how certain activities or emotions may increase the risk.
The study, led by Professor Andrew Smyth and published in the European Heart Journal, is part of the global INTERSTROKE research project, the largest study of its kind.
It analyzed 13,462 cases of acute stroke across 32 countries, including patients of diverse ethnic backgrounds.
The average age of participants was 62 years. Researchers focused on two main types of stroke: ischemic stroke, caused by a blood clot blocking or narrowing an artery to the brain, and intracerebral hemorrhage, involving bleeding within the brain tissue.
The findings identified two significant triggers:
Anger or Emotional Upset: Around one in 11 stroke survivors reported experiencing anger or emotional distress in the hour leading up to their stroke. This emotional state was associated with a 30% increase in the risk of stroke within the following hour. The risk was even higher for individuals without a history of depression.
Heavy Physical Exertion: One in 20 stroke patients had engaged in intense physical activity before their stroke. This was linked to a 60% increase in the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain) within the hour after the activity.
Women and individuals with a normal BMI faced a higher risk from this trigger, though no combined effect was observed when both anger and heavy exertion occurred together.
These findings highlight the importance of balancing physical and emotional wellness. While regular exercise is vital for maintaining cardiovascular health, the study suggests that those at high risk of heart disease or stroke should avoid heavy physical exertion and instead focus on moderate, consistent activity.
Similarly, managing emotional stress is crucial for overall well-being and may help reduce the risk of stroke.
The researchers emphasize the need for a healthy lifestyle at all ages. This includes maintaining mental health, practicing stress management, and engaging in safe, regular exercise.
By adopting these habits, individuals can not only lower their stroke risk but also support their long-term health.
This study provides valuable insights into stroke prevention, offering practical advice for people to minimize potential triggers while promoting a balanced approach to physical and mental health.
If you care about stroke, please read studies about how to eat to prevent stroke, and diets high in flavonoids could help reduce stroke risk.
For more information about health, please see recent studies about how Mediterranean diet could protect your brain health, and wild blueberries can benefit your heart and brain.
Copyright © 2024 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
