Brain strokes are not exclusive to elderly individuals; anyone can experience them. Did you know that strokes are also common among women? Globally, strokes are a leading cause of disability and death for all people, but according to the American Stroke Association, strokes are the third leading cause of death among women. In fact, women are more likely to die from strokes compared to men.
Why are strokes common among women?
Experts say that hormonal changes related to pregnancy or the use of contraceptive pills, along with women’s generally longer life expectancy, are some reasons why women experience strokes more frequently than men. Dr. Atul Prasad, Principal Director and Head of Neurology at BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital, shared with IANS that longer life expectancy, pregnancy, childbirth, contraceptive pills, and menopause-related hormonal factors increase stroke risk in women.
Other significant risk factors include high blood pressure, heart conditions like atrial fibrillation, irregular heart rhythms, and even environmental pollution.
Dr. Sumit Singh, Chief of Neurology at Artemis Hospitals, added, “Women with a history of migraines with aura have an elevated risk of stroke, especially when combined with factors like smoking or the use of oral contraceptives. Preeclampsia—a pregnancy-related complication—doubles stroke risk, but it’s often overlooked.”
Recognizing the Symptoms of Brain Stroke
Stroke symptoms can vary; however, established signs such as slurred speech, sudden weakness, and facial drooping are common in both genders. For women, stroke symptoms may be more subtle, like dizziness, fatigue, nausea, or even hiccups, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, ultimately worsening outcomes. Singh highlights that “these unusual symptoms frequently lead to delayed decisions or misdiagnoses, which can critically affect the recovery process.”
While the treatment and prevention of ischemic stroke are generally similar for both men and women, stroke rehabilitation programs for women need to be more gender-specific. Women tend to face worse outcomes, experience higher rates of depression and cognitive decline, and require more time to recover than men. “Supporting women in stroke recovery requires a comprehensive approach,” the doctor emphasized. “”This approach emphasizes putting mental health first, nurturing meaningful social bonds, and customizing physical recovery plans to meet each person’s unique needs.”
Key Strategies to Prevent Ischemic Stroke
Primary strategies to prevent ischemic strokes—such as controlling blood pressure, managing cholesterol, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle—are the same for both men and women. However, Dr. Prasad emphasized that women taking contraceptive pills or undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) should regularly monitor their stroke risk. Women with a history of preeclampsia also need long-term follow-up care.
Recognizing the unique aspects of stroke in women can enable early intervention and better recovery outcomes.
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