THE SCARY RISE OF STROKES AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE

WHEN you hear the word “stroke”, you probably picture it as something that only happens to grandparents or the elderly.

- VUYILE MADWANTSI

But here's the truth: a stroke doesn't discriminate by age. Increasingly, younger adults, sometimes even those in their 20s and 30s, are falling victim to this life-altering condition.

It’s time to challenge the misconception that stroke is solely an “old person's disease” and explore why it's becoming a growing concern for younger generations.

What is a stroke?

“A stroke is essentially a brain attack,’ explains Dr Hofmeyr Viljoen, a neuroradiologist at SCP Radiology.

“It happens when blood flow to a part of the brain is suddenly interrupted or severely reduced. Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells start dying within minutes”

Strokes come in two main forms:

1. Ischemic stroke: The most common type, caused by a blood clot blocking an artery in the brain.

2. Haemorrhagic stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing bleeding and pressure that damages brain tissue.

Both types are medical emergencies requiring immediate attention.

The warning signs: Act FAST

Stroke symptoms can appear suddenly and are the same regardless of age. Remember the acronym FAST.

F = Face drooping: Does one side of the face droop?

A = Arm weakness: Is one arm weak or numb?

S = Speech difficulty: Is speech slurred or hard to understand?