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High blood pressure a risk factor for bleeding strokes

Source: Reuters
Some bleeding strokes could be prevented

Our Summary

A study reported in the American Heart Association's journal Stroke, found young adults aged 18-49 years who suffer bleeding strokes had some preventable risk factors, such as high blood pressure.

According to the American Stroke Association website "There are two main types of stroke. One (ischemic stroke) is caused by blockage of a blood vessel; the other (hemorrhagic stroke) is caused by bleeding. Bleeding strokes have a much higher fatality rate than strokes caused by clots."

"Hemorrhage (or bleeding) from an artery in the brain can be caused by a head injury or a burst aneurysm. Aneurysms are blood-filled pouches that balloon out from weak spots in the artery wall. They're often caused or made worse by high blood pressure. Aneurysms aren't always dangerous, but if one bursts in the brain, they cause a hemorrhagic stroke."

Dr. Edward Feldmann's study at Brown Medical School in Providence, Rhode Island concluded that the risk factors for bleeding stroke include:

• high blood pressure
• diabetes
• menopause
• current cigarette smoking
• more than 2 alcoholic drinks per day
• more than 5 caffeinated drinks per day
• any drugs containing caffeine

The study shows that many bleeding strokes may be prevented by removing some of the risk factors through lifestyle and medication changes.  The main target being to identify and treat high blood pressure, smoking and excessive alcohol use to reduce the risk of bleeding stroke.

The American Stroke Association website is a great resource for further information on strokes, their causes and treatment and support for stroke sufferers.

Steve, maybe have another look at that list - I'm sure you could eliminate a couple more risk factors :) Steve's note: Please see Coffee is good for me!

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