PANAJI
Doctors in Goa have raised concerns over a worrying trend, with an increasing number of younger adults suffering strokes. Traditionally associated with the elderly, strokes are now affecting people in their 30s and 40s, largely due to lifestyle changes and substance abuse, specialists say.
Data from Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMC) shows that six to eight stroke cases are reported every day, with the State-wide incidence estimated at 95 to 145 cases per one lakh population.
Although strokes remain most common among people aged between 60 and 80 years, doctors say the number of cases among younger adults has risen in recent years.
A stroke is a serious medical emergency that can have lasting physical, emotional, psychological and economic consequences for patients and their families.
Also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), a stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures.
Doctors classify strokes into two major categories. Nearly 80 per cent are ischaemic strokes, caused by a blockage in blood flow due to a blood clot, atherosclerotic plaques, an embolism or heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation.
About 15 per cent are haemorrhagic strokes, which occur when bleeding takes place inside the brain due to uncontrolled hypertension, aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).
Haemorrhagic strokes are more frequently seen among younger patients and are often linked to arteriovenous malformations and aneurysms.
Medical experts warn that every minute counts when treating a stroke. Patients who reach hospital during the ‘golden hour’ have a significantly better chance of recovery. In certain cases, doctors can administer clot-busting medication after ruling out bleeding in the brain through a CT scan and other investigations.
Complications can be severe and include permanent neurological disability, seizures, infections, blood clots and bedsores. Many patients also require prolonged physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
Prevention is key
Doctors stress that prevention remains the best defence against strokes. A healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, stress management and avoiding tobacco, alcohol and narcotics can help reduce the risk. Regular screening for high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease is also important.
Men, older adults and people with a family history of stroke are particularly vulnerable, doctors say. In women, additional risk factors include pregnancy, the post-partum period, eclampsia, oral contraceptive use, migraine, hormone replacement therapy and early menopause.
