According to Clevelandclinic, Stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted due to an obstruction or ruptured vessels, which causes the brain cells to be deprived of oxygen and nutrients, making them to lose their capacity to perform optimally, thereby resulting to “stroke”.This can happen to anyone, regardless of age or gender.
However, the perception that stroke only affects the older population is a common misconception.
In fact, stroke can happen in younger people too, and it is crucial to be aware of the warning signs that should not be ignored.
The risk factors may differ for younger people, but, if left untreated, young adults may suffer a more severe stroke than elderly persons due to the higher baseline activity of their life.
Young people, between the ages of 18 to 45 years, may experience a stroke due to genetic conditions, lifestyle-related factors, or health issues related to their age-group.
This is why it is critically important for everyone – young or old – to understand the warning signs of a stroke.
The following are warning signs of stroke in younger people that should not be ignored:
1. Sudden severe headache:
One of the most common warning signs is a sudden, severe headache that comes on quickly, for no apparent reason, and is often accompanied by dizziness, blurred vision, or confusion.
2. Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body:
This means that one side of your body, whether it is your face, arm, or leg, has suddenly become weak or numb. You may also experience difficulty in speaking or understanding others.
3. Vision problems:
If you experience a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, or if you see double, blurred, or distorted vision, this could be a warning sign of a stroke.
4. Sudden difficulty in walking: If you suddenly have difficulty in walking, standing, or balancing, it could be a warning sign of a stroke.
5. Dizziness or vertigo:
This is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and difficulty in maintaining your balance.
6. Difficulty in speaking or understanding:
If you suddenly have trouble speaking and making yourself understood, or if you have difficulty in understanding what others are saying, this could be a warning sign of a stroke.
7. Loss of Coordination:
One may experience sudden loss of coordination, as well as loss of bladder or bowel control.