High blood pressure is a common health problem and a significant risk factor for stroke in people of all ages.

However, young adults under 40 years of age, who are diagnosed with hypertension, are at increased stroke risk than their peers who don’t have high blood pressure. In this article, we’ll investigate stroke risk factors that are attributed to pre-40 high blood pressure.

Age

While pre-40 high blood pressure is a stroke risk factor for younger people, age itself is also a contributing factor. High blood pressure is more common in older adults, and the risk of stroke increases with age.

People over 55 years old generally have a higher overall stroke risk because their blood vessels have had more time to deteriorate from hypertension. Furthermore, the likelihood of developing other health problems that increase stroke risk, such as type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol, also increases with age.

Genetics

The risk for pre-40 high blood pressure can be genetically linked. A family history of hypertension or stroke can increase the chances of developing high blood pressure.

It is essential to monitor blood pressure more closely and take preventive measures if a close family member was diagnosed with hypertension or stroke at a young age.

Gender

Younger women are less likely to have high blood pressure than men, as they have natural hormones that regulate blood pressure, cardiac function, and vascular health.

However, several studies indicate that premenopausal women with hypertension have a higher risk of stroke than men of the same age with high blood pressure. Women who use oral contraceptives, smoke cigarettes, or have kidney disease can be at an additional stroke risk.

Unhealthy Lifestyle Choices

Lifestyle choices can affect blood pressure and, by extension, stroke risk. Some of the unhealthy lifestyle habits that can contribute to pre-40 high blood pressure include:.

Smoking cigarettes
Consuming a diet high in salt, fat, and calories
Being physically inactive
Consuming alcohol in excess
Using illegal drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine

These lifestyle choices can contribute to high blood pressure and other risk factors for stroke, making them important to avoid or control when possible.

Lifestyle changes that can help manage hypertension include quitting smoking, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, exercise regularly, and maintaining a healthy diet.

Obesity

Obesity is a risk factor for pre-40 high blood pressure, mainly due to poor eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle.

Excess weight can put added pressure on the blood vessels, leading to narrowed vessels and damaged artery walls, increasing the risk of stroke. Obese individuals are also at greater risk of developing sleep apnea, which is associated with high blood pressure and increased stroke risk.

Underlying Medical Conditions

Several medical conditions can contribute to hypertension and increase the risk of stroke, including:.

Diabetes
High cholesterol
Heart disease
Kidney disease
Thyroid disorders
Adrenal gland issues

Management of these underlying conditions is essential in preventing pre-40 high blood pressure and stroke. Routine monitoring, regular check-ups and necessary medication can help manage these underlying health problems.

Stress

Stress and anxiety can be one of the main contributors to hypertension in younger people. Elevated stress levels can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure, leading to chronic hypertension to the following effects of long-term stress on the body.

Chronic stress engages the sympathetic nervous system, which increases heart rate and constricts blood vessels, which raises blood pressure levels and contribute to the risk of stroke.

Family History of Stroke

A family history of stroke increases the risk of pre-40 high blood pressure and stroke. Hypertension and other risk factors run in families, making close monitoring essential to detect problems early and prevent complications.

Conclusion

Pre-40 high blood pressure is a risk factor for stroke, and it’s essential to manage blood pressure levels from an early age. While some factors, like age or genetics, are uncontrollable, others, such as lifestyle choices, are modifiable.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting routine check-ups, and early intervention of chronic diseases can help reduce the risk of pre-40 high blood pressure and stroke in young adults.