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Why Hypertension & Hyperlipidemia Leads to Stroke

Hypertension is a condition in which the pressure of blood flow inside the circulatory system is too high. For healthy people, systolic blood pressure is 140 mm Hg or less, while diastolic pressure is ideally 90 mm Hg or below.

Hyperlipidemia occurs when blood lipid levels are too high. Lipids are fatty substances in the bloodstream, including cholesterol and triglycerides. Too much of these blood fats contributes to buildup of plaque in arteries, known as atherosclerosis.

Both of these cardiovascular diseases are risk factors for stroke.

  1. The Two Types of Stroke

    • Approximately 80 percent of strokes are ischemic strokes, which happens when a blood clot obstructs blood flow in the brain. The clot may form inside the brain or travel from elsewhere in the circulatory system.

      Hemorrhagic stroke is less common but more dangerous and occurs when there is an arterial rupture or leakage in the brain. Bleeding inside the brain can be immediately life-threatening--this type of stroke is fatal in 40 to 50 percent of cases.

    Hypertension as a Cause of Ischemic Stroke

    • Hypertension, if left untreated, can damage arteries and lead to atherosclerosis. This reduces blood flow and increases the risk of developing blood clots. When atherosclerosis affects the brain’s blood vessels, it may cause an ischemic stroke.

    Hypertension as a Cause of Hemorrhagic Stroke

    • Uncontrolled hypertension can cause blood vessels to weaken. Like overinflated tires, veins and arteries are susceptible to damage when too much pressure exists. This can result in a burst blood vessel in the brain.

    Hyperlipidemia as a Cause of Ischemic Stroke

    • If blood lipid levels are elevated, it can lead to atherosclerosis, a known risk factor for ischemic stroke.

    Hyperlipidemia as a Cause of Hemorrhagic Stroke

    • Hyperlipidemia may be more of a risk factor for ischemic stroke than hemorrhagic stroke. Yet atherosclerosis and blood clots could result in leakage or rupture of blood vessels. It is possible to reduce the risk of hemorrhagic stroke by controlling blood pressure and blood lipid levels.

    Treating Both Conditions

    • Certain drugs can treat both high blood pressure and high blood lipids. Talk to your doctor about these therapies. Tests will show which treatment option is right for you.

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