In the past, many people believed that stroke was a disease affecting only the elderly. However, today, an increasing number of young people are also experiencing this condition. Notably, the risk of stroke tends to rise during seasonal transitions, especially when temperatures drop sharply.

Stroke Risk Increases During Cold Weather

According to neurological experts, the cold season can be considered the “peak season” for stroke, particularly late at night and in the early morning. Lower temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to sudden increases in blood pressure. This can result in ruptured blood vessels or blockages, ultimately causing a stroke.

Even healthy individuals face a higher risk of stroke when exposed to harsh weather conditions, staying up late, overworking, or experiencing prolonged stress.

Nowadays, young people with unhealthy lifestyles are also considered a high-risk group for stroke. Several lifestyle habits that increase the risk include:

• Frequently staying up late, prolonged insomnia, and high levels of work-related stress.

• Prolonged sitting and lack of physical activity, which increase the risk of atherosclerosis.

• Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and frequent intake of processed foods.

• Ignoring warning signs from the body such as brief dizziness, numbness in the limbs, or headaches.

Young people can also suffer from strokes.

Early Signs of Stroke

According to experts, early detection of stroke and emergency treatment within the first 3–4 hours significantly increases survival rates and reduces long-term complications.

Experts also recommend remembering the FAST rule to quickly recognize stroke symptoms:

• F (Face): Facial drooping or an uneven smile, with one side of the face sagging.

• A (Arms): Weakness in one arm, difficulty lifting it.

• S (Speech): Slurred speech, difficulty speaking, or unclear words.

• T (Time): Call emergency services immediately without delay to avoid missing the critical treatment window.

In addition, there are other early warning signs of stroke that may appear several hours or even days beforehand, which people should pay close attention to:

• Dizziness, loss of balance, blurred vision, or temporary vision loss;

• Sudden, severe headache with no clear cause;

• Numbness or weakness on one side of the body, or a tingling sensation like pins and needles;

• Difficulty speaking, confusion, or trouble understanding others.

When these abnormal signs appear, individuals should never attempt acupressure, massage, or traditional remedies such as “coin rubbing.” These actions may worsen brain damage.

If someone shows the above symptoms, lay the patient on their side, loosen tight clothing, and call emergency services immediately.

Stroke is a rapidly progressing disease that often occurs without warning, and anyone can be affected. However, it can be prevented by adopting a healthier lifestyle and paying close attention to the body’s warning signs.