You might think you know the risk factors for a stroke, including a sedentary lifestyle, being overweight and heavy drinking and drug use. You may have even taken healthy steps to reduce those risks. However, there is a new concern involving stroke risk, thanks to a new study published in Stroke, a journal of the American Heart Association. Researchers have discovered that some infections, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also increase your odds of having a stroke in the weeks and months following the infection.
New Study Backs Findings of Previous Research
Researchers in this new study found that people who had a UTI severe enough to send them to the hospital were five times more likely to suffer an ischemic stroke in the week following the infection. The risk remained escalated for about three months afterward, although it continued to decrease with each week after the infection.
This study offers similar findings to previous research that has also linked severe UTIs to an increased stroke risk. However, the new study looked at more infections, including respiratory, skin and abdominal infections. Scientists also study other types of stroke beyond ischemic stroke, including intracerebral hemorrhage and subarachnoid hemorrhage. Ischemic strokes were linked to all the infections included in this study.
What Is an Ischemic Stroke?
An ischemic stroke occurs when arteries to the brain narrow or become completely blocked. The reduced blood flow leads to the death of brain cells within minutes, which is why a stroke is considered a medical emergency. Prompt treatment is necessary to preserve brain function and prevent death. About 80 percent of all strokes that occur are ischemic.
Somerset Woods Nursing Center is a skilled nursing facility in Somerset Woods that treats patients after stroke as well as other medical conditions. To learn more about our services, contact our office today.
