Stroke presents differently in women compared to men. Here are 7 symptoms to watch for
Stroke presents differently in women compared to men. Here are 7 symptoms to watch for
Stroke in women
When it comes to strokes, time is of the essence. Every minute counts. The human brain is an incredibly complex organ, housing 86 billion neurons. For every passing minute during a stroke, a person loses a staggering 1.9 million of these neurons. This alarming statistic underscores the critical importance of quickly recognizing the signs of a stroke. To aid in this recognition, the BE-FAST acronym has become a valuable tool. It stands for balance loss, eyesight changes, face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, and the urgent need to call 911.
However, while BE-FAST is an effective mnemonic for identifying the most common stroke symptoms, it may not encompass the full spectrum of stroke experiences. Recent research has shed light on the fact that women frequently exhibit atypical and subtle stroke symptoms that may not be covered by the BE-FAST acronym. Dr. Hera Kamdar, an assistant professor of neurology at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, explains that these often-overlooked symptoms can be attributed to the high mortality rate of stroke, which ranks as the fifth leading cause of death in women, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Here are some of the lesser-known signs of stroke that women should be aware of:
1. Severe Headache
While a severe headache might be brushed off as a common occurrence, it could be an early indicator of a stroke. If the headache is sudden, intense, and unlike any you've experienced before, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
2. Generalized Weakness
Generalized weakness can be a sign of a stroke, particularly if it affects both sides of the body simultaneously. Unlike one-sided muscle weakness, which is a common stroke symptom, generalized weakness may not improve over time.
3. Generalized Fatigue
Experiencing extreme fatigue that hinders your daily activities may be a sign of a stroke. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmingly tired, to the point where you're physically unable to get out of bed, it's time to seek medical help.
4. Shortness of Breath and Chest Pains
Sudden shortness of breath and chest pains can be attributed to various health issues, but they can also signal a stroke. If these symptoms appear out of the blue and are severe, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional.
5. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting can be mistaken for stomach problems, but they can also be stroke symptoms, especially if they occur suddenly and are accompanied by other signs.
6. Brain Fog
If you experience a sudden state of mental confusion, difficulty concentrating, or an inability to think clearly, it might be an early sign of a stroke.
7. Hiccups
While hiccups may seem unrelated to stroke at first glance, some research suggests that stroke-related hiccups can indicate brain damage in areas controlling breathing and movement. It's essential to pay attention to hiccups, especially if they're severe and persist alongside other symptoms.
It's important to note that not every instance of these symptoms should be a cause for panic. The severity and combination of symptoms should be the determining factor. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms to an extent that significantly impairs your daily life or if they are accompanied by other concerning signs, seeking medical attention is crucial.
Stroke Symptoms in Men vs. Women
Researchers have identified several factors that contribute to the differences in how stroke presents in men and women, with hormonal disparities being a significant factor. Estrogen, one of the main female reproductive hormones, has shown to have a protective effect against stroke. Estrogen's anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to this protective effect, as well as its ability to increase blood flow to the brain.
However, it's essential to understand that this protective effect only applies to naturally produced estrogen in the body. Synthetic forms of estrogen, such as those found in birth control or hormone replacement therapy, can actually increase the risk of stroke, albeit modestly.
Age is another critical factor. As women age, they naturally produce less estrogen, which could partly explain why the lifetime risk of stroke is higher in women compared to men. Research indicates that the significant drop in estrogen levels during menopause is associated with an increased risk of stroke in later life. Furthermore, women tend to outlive men, providing more opportunities for stroke occurrence.
Pregnancy also introduces a unique set of risk factors. Pregnancy can triple the risk of stroke in young women, primarily due to the development of a blood pressure condition called preeclampsia, which increases the risk of stroke. This risk extends into the postpartum period, particularly if hypertension is undetected or inadequately treated.
Blood clots are another concern during pregnancy, as they form to prevent excessive bleeding during delivery. While not all pregnant individuals experience blood clots, the risk is considerably higher during pregnancy and the postpartum period compared to non-pregnant individuals.
What to Do If You Suspect a Stroke
The key to a successful recovery from a stroke is the promptness with which the individual seeks help. There are treatments available to improve survival outcomes, but they are highly time-sensitive. Even if you are uncertain whether someone is experiencing a stroke, it's crucial to call 911 immediately. Dr. Eliza Miller emphasizes the importance of erring on the side of caution, stating, "I would rather have a person come into the emergency room and turn out to be completely fine than not come at all and miss our opportunity to treat the stroke."
In conclusion, understanding that stroke presents differently in women than in men is of paramount importance. By recognizing these atypical symptoms and understanding the unique risk factors women face, we can take a significant step toward reducing the high mortality rate associated with stroke in women.
