Infants can also suffer strokes.

For most young people, having a stroke seems impossible. And this is a harmful misconception because strokes can happen at any age, including in infants, teenagers, and young adults.

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Most experts classify stroke victims under 45 as young patients. Currently, the overall stroke incidence is declining. However, the number of young people suffering from the disease is on the rise (in the 20-54 age group) – increasing by 13-19%.

"Some studies suggest that strokes are increasing in younger age groups, but more conclusive evidence is needed," said Andrew Russman, a neurologist and stroke care specialist at Cleveland Clinic (USA).

Here are some annual statistics on young stroke patients in the United States:

Stroke occurs in 4,000 newborns.

From birth to age 18, there are 11 cases of stroke per 100,000 children and adolescents.

Stroke occurs in everyone under 45 years old at a rate of 7-15 per 100,000 people.

How does stroke differ in younger age groups? What are the signs of stroke?

Stroke in people under 45 requires a different approach to treatment and management because different causes need to be identified. "Stroke in young people is quite different from stroke in older adults," said Ausim Azizi, head of the Department of Neurology at the University of Philadelphia School of Medicine.

Stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is reduced. In older adults, the most common cause is a blood clot that can form in the blood vessels of the brain, or in blood vessels leading to the brain, or in blood vessels elsewhere in the body that supply blood to the brain; these clots block blood flow to brain cells. This type accounts for over 80% of ischemic strokes.

However, in children, common causes include infection, injury, cardiovascular disorders, sickle cell disease, and dehydration.

"Cardiovascular diseases are a major cause of strokes in younger age groups. Another factor to consider is drug use, especially intravenous drugs," said Dr. Azizi. Cardiovascular diseases include rheumatic heart disease, abnormal heart valves, or a persistent foramen ovale (a hole in the heart that doesn't close properly after birth).

"Other causes of stroke in younger age groups may include migraines, birth control pills, and smoking," said Dr. Russman.

Stroke prevention and recovery in young people.

"If strokes are increasing in people under 45, one of the main reasons could be obesity," Russman said. "Obesity is on the rise in children and adolescents. Obesity increases the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. All of these are risk factors for stroke at all ages."

Stroke prevention at all ages requires:

- Go for a medical check-up to get a diagnosis.

- Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy body weight.

- Adopt a healthy diet rich in fiber and green vegetables.

- Control high blood pressure and high cholesterol at a young age.

- Recognizing and managing diabetes.

- Avoid alcohol, smoking, and drugs.

One of the major differences between stroke in older adults and stroke in younger adults is the likelihood of recovery. In younger patients, the survival rate is 90% compared to 40% in older adults; 90% can live independently compared to 40% of older stroke victims; 50-70% can return to work after a stroke, and the recurrence rate is significantly lower.

"The key to managing stroke in younger age groups is identifying and treating the underlying cause. Reducing risk factors, just as with stroke in older adults, is key to preventing first or recurrent strokes," said Dr. Russman.

According to VNN