Are the consequences of stroke more severe in women? Is "migraine" a key omen? US CDC: "5 Things" Don't Do Again
If women suffer from stroke, the symptoms are more severe than men and the prognosis may be worse? A meta-study published in the journal “Stroke”, a publication of the American Heart Association (AHA), shows that women have higher rates of symptoms, mental instability, and overall morbidity than men after ischemic stroke. What are the causes? Research suggests that it may be related to the common “migraine” condition in women.
Are the consequences of stroke more severe in women? 3 major indicators are significantly higher than those of men
A research team from the Netherlands searched a total of 3051 publications, of which 60 studies were related to stroke. A total of 582,844 stroke patients (50% female) were included in the analysis. The average age of women was 74 years old and that of men was 69 years old; the keywords of 18 studies included ischemic stroke, and a total of 51,824 patients (49% female) participated. Meta-analysis results show:
Women are more likely to develop “non-focal symptoms” (such as confusion and forgetfulness) after being diagnosed with stroke than men. The incidence rates for men and women are 27% and 31% respectively, and women are more likely to be diagnosed with transient ischemic attacks.
The mental state of women after being diagnosed with stroke is worse than that of men. The rates of mental state changes for men and women were 17% and 22% respectively.
The overall incidence rate is higher in women. The rates for men and women were 6% and 8% respectively. However, women were less likely to experience non-specific neurological conditions or symptoms, at 32% of men and 31% of women.
The research team found that, overall, women’s values tend to be higher, which are all related to “migraine” conditions. The incidence rates of migraine in men and women are 16% and 19% respectively. When cross-compared with various results, there is indeed a correlation. However, the causal relationship between migraine and stroke cannot yet be clarified, and research with a larger sample size is still needed to confirm it.
Are women related to endometriosis? Experts point out: “Migraine” plays a key role
A recent study also published in “Stroke” pointed out that endometriosis is associated with a higher risk of stroke in women. The study analyzed 110,000 women and found that those with endometriosis had a 34% greater risk of stroke compared with those without endometriosis. The highest risk outcomes were associated with patients undergoing hysterectomy/oophorectomy (39%) and postmenopausal estrogen therapy (16%).
Study author Stacey A. Missmer said that the academic community previously believed that migraines may be one of the signs of endometriosis; in addition, menopausal women receiving estrogen treatment, women taking oral contraceptives and other behaviors may be related to the occurrence of migraines. Related to grade endometriosis. This suggests that migraines do contribute to some underlying mechanism linking endometriosis and stroke. However, Missmer believes that it is still not possible to conclude that endometriosis is absolutely related to stroke and migraine. This hypothesis needs to be further clarified by scientists.
What reasons increase women’s risk of stroke? US CDC: Obesity, Smoking, High Blood Pressure
Although the relationship between stroke, migraines and endometriosis in women remains to be answered, the US CDC published guidelines stating that poor living habits and a history of specific diseases may indeed lead to an increased risk of stroke. Women are reminded that if they have suffered from the following diseases or have bad habits in the past, they need to pay special attention:
High blood pressure. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for stroke, and women with blood pressure greater than 130/80 mmHg should be especially careful.
Diabetes or obesity. Diabetes or obesity is associated with higher rates of cardiovascular disease. Obesity can easily cause hyperlipidemia to block blood vessels, which in turn affects the operation of cerebral blood vessels and increases the risk of stroke.
Use birth control pills. Oral contraceptives may increase blood concentration and increase the risk of cerebral ischemia, cerebral infarction and even stroke.
**Smoking.**Smoking is an important factor causing cardiovascular harm and can easily lead to coronary artery disease and ischemic stroke.
Have a history of depression. Depression is closely related to stroke. The former may affect brain function and cause neurological damage. Drastic changes in the patient’s lifestyle after a stroke may also contribute to the occurrence of stroke.
Based on the above, the US CDC recommends that women should actively control their blood pressure and take medications as directed by their doctors. Smokers also need to start trying to quit smoking, otherwise it will put a load on the cardiovascular system and lead to adverse consequences such as stroke, myocardial infarction, etc. Women can also choose healthier foods, including low-salt and low-sodium diets to lower blood pressure. Foods rich in fiber and whole grains can effectively control cholesterol. Plus, regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight and make your heart and blood vessels healthier.
Source:
Women with endometriosis may have higher risk of stroke
Sex Differences in Presentation of Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
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