Debunked: The myth of a direct link between stress and stroke

Acute stress can trigger hemorrhagic stroke - bleeding in the brain. However, most often chronic stress increases the risk of ischemic stroke indirectly. This was explained to MedicalXpress by neurologist Curtis Benesch, medical director of the Comprehensive Stroke Treatment Center at the University of Rochester.

The doctor explained in detail the mechanism by which prolonged stress becomes a "silent killer." It contributes to common stroke risk factors such as high blood pressure and systemic inflammation. Additionally, people experiencing chronic stress are more likely to suffer from sleep disorders and develop harmful habits.

"Over time, this can lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which increases the risk of ischemic stroke, which is the most common type," Benesch clarified.

The specialist noted the dual nature of stress hormones. Epinephrine (better known as adrenaline) and cortisol play a positive role in the short term. They help a person respond to danger in a timely manner by mobilizing the body's defensive forces. However, constantly elevated levels trigger destructive processes that contribute to vascular damage.

The expert emphasized that chronic stress is more closely associated with ischemic stroke. However, there is scientific evidence that severe acute stress - such as experienced violence, a car accident, or a natural disaster - can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding in the brain).

"We more often observe such extreme acute reactions in heart disease. If a person has very high blood pressure or weak blood vessels, severe stress can trigger bleeding," warned Dr. Benesch.