Can Stress Increase Your Risk of Stroke?

Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. While factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and unhealthy diets are well-known risk factors, chronic stress is often overlooked despite its significant impact on cardiovascular health. According to Dr. Curtis Benesch, Medical Director of UR Medicine's Comprehensive Stroke Center, there is compelling evidence of a statistical association between prolonged stress and heightened stroke risk.

Chronic stress influences the body in indirect ways. It contributes to conditions like high blood pressure, poor sleep, systemic inflammation, and unhealthy habits such as poor diet, inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Over time, these factors lead to atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, increasing the likelihood of ischemic strokes—the most common type.

When stressed, your body releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. While beneficial in short bursts, prolonged elevation of these hormones can elevate blood pressure, increase blood sugar, promote inflammation, and encourage blood clot formation—all of which damage blood vessels and heighten stroke risk.

Extreme acute stress, such as experiencing violence, accidents, or natural disasters, might trigger hemorrhagic strokes by causing sudden spikes in blood pressure, especially if blood vessels are already vulnerable. Additionally, individuals in lower socioeconomic groups face higher stress levels due to financial instability, unsafe housing, and limited healthcare access, further amplifying their risk.

Stress influences stroke risk by fostering unhealthy behaviors like poor eating, inactivity, smoking, and neglecting medical care, which worsen conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol. Managing stress is therefore a vital aspect of overall cardiovascular health. Strategies include engaging in joyful activities, practicing mindfulness, and seeking professional support when stress becomes overwhelming.

Recognizing stroke symptoms promptly is critical. Use the FAST acronym—Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and urgent need to call 911—to ensure immediate treatment. While managing stress isn't alone a formal prevention measure, reducing stress levels forms an essential part of maintaining a healthy heart and brain.

Source: Medical Xpress