Exploring the Correlation Between Stroke Occurrences, Covid-19, and the Youth
By Dr. Joyce Pauline Joseph, Consultant Neurologist at Aurelius Hospital Nilai
The Covid-19 pandemic has reshaped human health on a global scale, extending far beyond its commonly acknowledged respiratory effects. This virus has shown its capacity to affect multiple bodily functions, leading to significant physiological changes. Its impact ranges from intricacies within the immune system to complexities in cardiovascular health, introducing unprecedented alterations in individuals’ physiological well-being.
But what are the correlations, if any, between Covid-19 and an increase in stroke incidences especially amongst the young? In light of the increasing number of cases of Covid-19 in Malaysia again, in this article, we attempt to investigate the links.
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Traditionally, when we speak about strokes, it tends to be an “elderly persons” disease, a health concern prevalent amongst those aged 50 and above. However, over the past three years since the first outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, an intriguing and worrying connection has emerged between the virus and incidences of strokes in younger individuals.
Emergence of a concerning link with stroke
Covid-19 is indeed associated with a higher risk of stroke, a majority of them being ischemic strokes (caused by a blockage in an artery that supplies blood to the brain). A study by PubMed Central, a highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health, did suggest a connection between the high prevalence of vascular risk factors and concurrent elevation of proinflammatory and procoagulation biomarkers in this.
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In the same study, it has been proposed that the virus that causes Covid-19 infects the cells that line the inside of the blood vessels and these infected cells release several pro-inflammatory factors that attract other immune cells to the affected area. In turn, this leads to damage to the lining cells, activating platelets and other factors involved in clotting. This chain of events eventually increases the risk of a blood clot that could potentially travel up to the brain and cause a stroke.
In essence, hypercoagulability and inflammatory response cause vascular complications, increasing the risk of strokes, regardless of age.
Stroke risk factors
Findings from another large-scale study conducted by BMJ, wholly owned by the British Medical Association (BMA), suggested that Covid-19 is a risk factor for deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and bleeding. The risk of developing blood clots in the lungs and legs is significantly elevated for up to six months upon contracting Covid-19.
From data collected from the US Department of Veteran Affairs, which consisted of 153,760 individuals who contracted Covid-19, evidence suggested that after the initial 30 days of infection, individuals afflicted with Covid-19 displayed heightened susceptibilities and endured a year-long burden of newly emerging cardiovascular conditions. These encompassed a spectrum of disorders, ranging from cerebrovascular issues and dysrhythmias to inflammatory heart disease, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, thromboembolic disease, and assorted cardiac disorders.
Strikingly, these risks manifested consistently across various demographic factors, such as age, race, and gender, as well as other established cardiovascular risk factors like obesity, hypertension, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and hyperlipidemia. Notably, even those without any pre-existing cardiovascular conditions prior to exposure to Covid-19 exhibited these risks, suggesting a propensity for these complications to manifest in individuals traditionally considered at low risk for cardiovascular diseases.
In summary, data and evidence gathered do point to a heightened risk of stroke brought about by Covid-19, regardless of age. Even though it remains an uncommon occurrence, it remains a risk especially for individuals pre-existing health conditions that are known to boost the risk of stroke.
Young ones with pre-existing health conditions may be at more risk
Young individuals who have pre-existing health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or obesity face an elevated risk of experiencing severe complications from Covid-19, including the potential for strokes. Effectively managing these underlying health conditions emerges as a critical measure in preventing adverse outcomes and improving the overall prognosis for those affected by the virus. Prioritising the control and treatment of these existing health issues not only supports overall well-being but also plays a pivotal role in mitigating the severity of Covid-19-related complications.
Focus on prevention
Maintaining vigilance and monitoring for symptoms associated with stroke, such as sudden weakness or numbness, difficulty speaking, or severe headache, is crucial for early detection and intervention. Seeking prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes in case of a stroke.
While the correlation between incidences of stroke, Covid-19 and how it affects younger individuals remains a subject of ongoing research and study, it remains crucial in recognising the potential risks and taking appropriate and proactive measures.
Risk mitigation strategies
Staying informed through reliable health sources, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, proper diet, and consulting medical professionals play essential roles in reducing stroke risk.
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