8 Things Science Has Linked to a Higher Risk of Stroke

Stroke basics

Strokes happen when blood vessels carrying blood to the brain either burst or are blocked, starving the brain of oxygen. They can lead to brain damage and even death. Nearly 800,000 Americans have a stroke each year. While strokes are declining among the elderly, rates in adults under age 45 shot up by 43 percent between 2000 and 2010, a study in the journal of the American Heart Association reported, possibly due to a rise in the prevalence of high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, and illicit drug use. Classic signs of a stroke include face-drooping, arm weakness, and difficulty speaking—but there are other sneakier symptoms to look out for, especially in women.

Smoking, being overweight, and a family history of stroke are major factors that increase a person’s risk. But recent research has also uncovered several surprising things that can also increase your chances of suffering a stroke.

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