Hemorrhagic Stroke Risk

Hemorrhagic stroke is sudden bleeding in or next to your brain, according to The Dana Guide. It can be caused by a large number of conditions, and certain factors place you at a higher risk.

Age/Gender/Ethnicity

• According to an article in The New York Times Health Guide, older adults are at an increased risk for stroke, as are men and minority groups (Native American, Hispanic, African American).

Genetic Factors

• If you have a family history of stroke or heart attack, it puts you at a higher risk, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Health

• The Mayo Clinic indicates that several health issues can be a risk factor for stroke. These include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, cardiovascular disease (heart defect, heart failure, abnormal heart rhythm or heart infection) and previous stroke.

Lifestyle

• Certain lifestyle habits can increase your risk of stroke, according to the Mayo Clinic. Cigarette smoking, use of birth control pills, heavy use of alcohol or illicit drug use can increase your risk.

Considerations

• The Mayo Clinic indicates that complications of a hemorrhagic stroke include paralysis, problems talking or swallowing, memory loss, pain and comprehension issues.

Warning

• If you or someone with you experiences any of the following symptoms of a hemorrhagic stroke, you should seek immediate medical care. These symptoms include dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, paralysis or numbness on one side, vision problems, severe headache and speaking difficulties.