In a world full of busy days and high-stress situations, strokes are not just common; they’re also a leading cause of death for women. In fact, according to the American Heart Association, strokes kill more women than men and impact 1 in 5 females, leaving many people to wonder how and why strokes are different in women.
What Are the Unique Risk Factors for Stroke in Women?
Common risk factors for stroke in any individual include high blood pressure, age, heart disease, diabetes, smoking, physical inactivity and obesity. Some of these risk factors specifically contribute to the high rate of strokes in women.
For instance, because women typically live longer than men, age is more likely to pose a risk in women. Women also have higher rates of depression, which can lead to physical inactivity and poor heart health.
Some risk factors are unique to women. These include high blood pressure during pregnancy and the use of hormonal birth control. The combination of smoking and oral contraceptive use can dramatically increase stroke risk.
Women who experience migraines with vision disturbances also face twice the risk of ischemic stroke, which is the most common type of stroke that occurs when a blood clot or blockage limits blood flow to the brain, especially when smoking or taking birth control is involved.
African American and Hispanic women are at a higher risk for stroke, largely due to higher rates of high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity. Sickle cell disease, a condition found in some African American women, can also increase the risk of stroke.
Autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, which are more commonly seen in women, also contribute to stroke risk. These conditions promote chronic inflammation and vascular damage, raising the likelihood of ischemic stroke.
I Have Many Risk Factors. How Can I Prevent a Stroke?
The good news? Although strokes are unfortunately common medical emergencies for women, 80% of strokes can be prevented.
Eating healthy directly contributes to heart health, which reduces the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. Other risk factors, like diabetes and obesity, can also be reduced through proper nutrition.
Foods with lower amounts of sodium can lower blood pressure, while foods rich in fiber can improve cholesterol levels. Additionally, focusing on reducing sugar intake can reduce the risk of diabetes and obesity.
Regular physical activity is the second major step to preventing a stroke. By staying active, you are allowing your body to keep your heart strong and healthy. Spending some time moving your body each day is a great start to preventing stroke and many other health conditions.
Finally, not smoking or quitting smoking is a major factor in preventing a stroke, especially for women on certain kinds of birth control. Need help with quitting smoking? Call 800-QUIT NOW to learn more or enroll in a program.
What Signs and Symptoms Might a Woman Experience During a Stroke?
When experiencing a stroke, women may first feel weak, confused or tired, or experience a headache, brain fog or some other vague symptom. The quicker a stroke is realized, the better the chances of survival and the more brain matter that can be saved. For that reason, seek medical attention if anything feels off, and be on the lookout for these additional symptoms, marked by the phrase BE FAST:
Expert Care Close to Home
While life may have you stressed out and exhausted, understanding your risk for stroke can help you prevent the unthinkable.
If you think you may be at risk for a stroke, talk to your primary care provider about your risks. UofL Health has several providers across multiple counties ready to serve you. Find your new primary care provider at UofL Physicians – Primary Care today by calling 502-588-4343.
If you or a loved one experiences symptoms of a stroke, UofL Health – Emergency Care is here for you with seven Emergency Departments open 24/7, providing patients with around-the-clock expert care.
Our stroke experts with UofL Health – Brain & Spine Institute are committed to helping prevent and treat strokes. Several UofL Health hospitals have premier designations and specially-trained staff to care for stroke patients, including:
- UofL Health – UofL Hospital – Comprehensive Stroke Center, which is Kentucky’s first Joint Commission-certified Comprehensive Stroke Center
- UofL Health – Jewish Hospital – Primary Stroke Center
- UofL Health – Mary & Elizabeth Hospital – Primary Stroke Center
