A stroke is a serious medical emergency that happens when blood stops flowing to the brain, which doesn’t get the oxygen and nutrients it needs. Brain cells begin to die within minutes; this can lead to permanent brain damage, disability or even death. Sadly, strokes affect Black people more than any other group in the United States – and Black people are more likely to die from them, too.

What It Is

There are two main types of strokes. Ischemic, the most common type, happens when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain. Hemorrhagic stroke occur when a blood vessel in the brain bursts and causes bleeding. In both types, the brain is damaged quickly. That’s why being informed and getting help fast is so important.

Strokes pictured: Black men hanging out
(Alexandre Debieve/Unsplash)

Black adults are nearly twice as likely to have a first stroke compared to white adults. They also tend to have strokes at a younger age and are more likely to die from them. There are a few reasons for this.

High blood pressure is more common in Black communities and often starts earlier in life. Likewise, diabetes and obesity are more common, which can raise stroke risk. Less access to healthcare, healthy food, and safe places to exercise can make it harder to stay healthy. Additionally, systemic racism and healthcare bias may also lead to worse care and less early treatment.

Because of these factors, it’s especially important for Black individuals and families to know the signs of stroke and take steps to prevent them.

What’s Happening in Your Body

When a person experiences a stroke, three main things are occurring. First, blood flow is disrupted. Whether because of a blood clot or a burst vessel, blood is no longer effectively being routed through the body. Because red blood cells in particular carry both oxygen and nutrients to vital organs, this is a problem.

Specifically, brain cells may begin to die as blood supply is cut off. This experience leads to a stroke which, if not treated in a timely manner can lead to functional impairment in the body depending on which part of the brain is impacted.

Causes of Stroke

Several health problems and behaviors can raise the risk of stroke:

Some of these causes are related to lifestyle, while others may be genetic. Also, keep in mind that a family history of strokes can also increase a person’s risk of developing a stroke. But the good news is that many of these risk factors can be managed or even prevented with the right steps.

Clinical Pharmacist, Dr. Diana Rangaves, “Fast food is notorious for packing in the salt. The flavors we crave—cheesy sauces, crispy chicken, seasoned fries—often come loaded. Over time, this increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease. Many fast food items can push you over the daily recommended intake in a single meal. Work to find healthier alternatives.”

Health Risks and Complications

Strokes can lead to serious long-term problems, including:

  • Paralysis (being unable to move part of the body).
  • Difficulty speaking or understanding speech.
  • Problems with memory or thinking.
  • Trouble swallowing.
  • Emotional changes like depression or frustration.

In some cases, a stroke can also increase the risk of other health problems like heart disease, more strokes or even infections. Recovery from a stroke often depends on how fast the person got help and how much of the brain was affected.

What to Do About Stroke

Managing stroke requires a two-pronged approach. Preventative care is always the best approach which means people should prioritize overall health and wellness. Most strokes can be prevented by adopting healthier habits. Here are some ways to reduce risks:

  • Eat healthy: Choose more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Avoid too much salt and sugar.
  • Exercise regularly: Even walking 30 minutes a day can make a big difference.
  • Lose weight if needed: Being overweight can raise blood pressure and increase stroke risk.
  • Stop smoking: Tobacco use can damage blood vessels and also increase stroke risk.
  • Drink less alcohol: Too much alcohol can raise blood pressure.
  • Take medications if needed: People diagnosed with high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes, should take medications exactly as prescribed by their doctors.
  • Go to regular checkups: Attending recommended doctor’s visits often helps catch problems early and keeps people healthy.

These steps are especially important for Black people, who may have a higher risk of stroke at a younger age. 

When to See a Doctor

While strokes can occur quickly, in most cases there are warning signs that can alert people to see a doctor or seek immediate medical attention. Sometimes people will experience a warning or “mini-stroke” before a more extensive one occurs. In these scenarios, a person might experience what is known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA) which are typically less lethal or damaging, but shouldn’t be ignored. Common signs include:

  • Weakness, numbness, or paralysis on one side of the body
  • Slurred speech or having trouble understanding others
  • Blindness that effects one or both eyes
  • Dizziness
  • Severe headaches that don’t have a known cause

However, if someone experiences a larger stroke, people are urged to seek immediate medical attention and “think FAST” which includes:

  • Face drooping
  • Arm drifting where one arm hangs down significantly lower than the other
  • Speech difficulty
  • Time: prioritize getting immediate help.

What exactly causes a stroke?

Stroke is caused when blood flow is blocked to the brain whether because of a blood clot or a broken blood vessel.

Who usually gets a stroke?

Anyone can suffer a stroke but usually people over 55 with a history of high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and even smoking are at a higher risk. Black people and those with a family history of stroke are also at a heightened risk.

Can stress cause a stroke?

Yes, experiencing chronic stress can increase a person’s risk of stroke but usually is not the sole cause.

What lifestyle leads to stroke?

Common contributing factors include smoking, being sedentary, having high blood pressure or cholesterol, being obese, consuming excessive alcohol, and illicit drug use.

Bottom Line

Stroke is a serious condition that can lead to brain damage, impaired bodily function and even death in extreme cases. While seeking immediate medical attention for someone suffering from a stroke is critical to minimize damage, the best preventative tool is to adopt a healthier lifestyle and prioritize health management through regular medical care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it true that 80% of strokes can be prevented?

According to the American Heart Association, up to 80% of strokes can be prevented with healthy lifestyle changes and managing medical conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.

How long does stroke recovery take?

Stroke recovery is different for everyone. Some people improve in a few weeks or months, while others may need years of therapy. Recovery depends on how bad the stroke was, how quickly they got treatment and how much support they have afterward such as physical, memory or speech therapy.

What are the five warning signs of a stroke?

Remember F.A.S.T. to spot stroke signs:

  • F – Face drooping
  • A – Arm weakness
  • S – Speech difficulty
  • T – Time to call 911

Other signs include sudden confusion, trouble seeing, dizziness or a sudden, severe headache.