Stroke is a medical emergency that affects millions of people worldwide, and it is a leading cause of disability and death. Although stroke can affect both men and women, the risk factors and symptoms of stroke may vary depending on gender.

Women, for instance, have a higher risk of stroke than men, and some risk factors for stroke may be unique to them.

In this article, we will discuss five uncommon risk factors for stroke that women should be aware of, and how to identify them to minimize your risk of stroke.

Hypertension during pregnancy

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common risk factor for stroke in both men and women. However, in women, hypertension during pregnancy may be a unique risk factor for stroke.

According to the American Heart Association, women who develop hypertension or preeclampsia during pregnancy have an increased risk of stroke later in life. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys.

Preeclampsia typically develops after the 20th week of pregnancy and can lead to premature birth and low birth weight babies.

Women who have a history of preeclampsia or hypertension during pregnancy should inform their doctors and undergo regular check-ups to help identify and manage their stroke risk.

Migraines with aura

A migraine is a severe headache that can cause intense throbbing or pulsing sensations in one area of the head. Migraines are more common in women than men, and they can be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, sensitivity to light, and an aura.

An aura is a visual disturbance that can occur before or during a migraine, such as seeing flashing lights, zigzag lines, or partial blindness.

Studies have shown that women who experience migraines with aura may have an increased risk of stroke than those who don’t.

The exact reason for this link is unclear, but researchers speculate that migraines with aura may be associated with changes in blood flow to the brain.

Women who experience migraines with aura should undergo regular screening and monitoring for stroke risk factors, such as high blood pressure, smoking, and high cholesterol.

Autoimmune disorders

Autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis may increase the risk of stroke in women.

Autoimmune disorders occur when the body’s immune system attacks and damages healthy tissues and organs, leading to inflammation and other health complications.

Studies have shown that women with autoimmune disorders may have a higher risk of stroke than men with the same disorders. However, the exact link between autoimmune disorders and stroke risk requires further research.

Women with autoimmune disorders should be aware of the symptoms of stroke and undergo regular screening for stroke risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels.

Hereditary hemochromatosis

Hereditary hemochromatosis is an inherited disorder that causes the body to absorb too much iron from food, leading to a buildup of iron in the organs, including the brain.

Hemochromatosis can cause liver damage, diabetes, heart failure, and other complications.

Studies have shown that women with hereditary hemochromatosis may have an increased risk of stroke than those without the disorder. The exact reason for this link is unclear, but researchers suggest that iron buildup in the brain may play a role.

Women with hereditary hemochromatosis should undergo regular check-ups and screening for stroke risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels.

Treatment may include regular blood donations to reduce iron levels and prevent complications.

Atrial fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation is a heart condition characterized by irregular heartbeats or a rapid heartbeat. Atrial fibrillation can increase the risk of stroke by causing blood clots to form in the heart, which can travel to the brain and lead to a stroke.

Although atrial fibrillation affects both men and women, women may be at a higher risk of stroke than men.

Women with atrial fibrillation should undergo regular check-ups and monitoring to identify and manage their stroke risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels.