New research suggests that a high-stress lifestyle and “Type A” behavior may be risk factors for stroke.
A stroke is a sudden interruption of blood and oxygen flow to different areas of the brain and can cause brain damage and loss of motor or cognitive function. Important risk factors include age, sex, ethnicity, family history, history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (mini-stroke), high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, chronic diseases. heart, increased homocysteine levels, sickle cell anemia, and the use of birth control pills or hormone therapy. Some risk factors, such as sex, age, and heredity, cannot be controlled.
The study published in the professional journal Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry included 150 people who had had a stroke. The researchers also formed a control group consisting of 300 individuals with no history of stroke. All participants were from Madrid, Spain. Both the stroke history group and the control group were evaluated to identify stressful events in the last year and determine their mental well-being.
The researchers also assessed the degree to which all participants exhibited Type A behavior or behavior. Individuals with Type A behavior are more aggressive, impatient, and tense.
Individuals in the stroke group were almost four times more likely to have experienced a stressful life event in the past year than those in the control group. Those who received a higher score on the Type A behavioral test had more than double the risk of stroke. Additionally, consuming more than two energy drinks a day also increased the risk of stroke.
Researchers concluded that reducing stress can help prevent a stroke. However, more research is needed.
