Neurologist told, after which infection the risk of stroke may increase

About what processes occur in the body during infections and why after the usual flu may increase the risk of stroke, explained the Russian neurologist, cephalgologist Tatyana Vinogradova, writes sb.by.

The specialist confirmed that during the first 15 days after suffering an influenza-like infection, the risk of developing an ischemic stroke can increase almost three times. This is due to the fact that during the fight against the virus, the body mobilizes all protective resources - from immune and endocrine to mental:

“We preserve our DNA in every possible way. But at this point, other small “breakdowns” occur, for example, at the level of the vascular bed, the very composition of the blood.

The neurologist identified several mechanisms leading to stroke against the background of the disease:

Damage to the vascular wall. At the cellular level, microdamage occurs in the vessels. If the patient has concomitant arterial hypertension, against the background of intoxication and high temperature, the pressure becomes almost unmanageable. This provokes either a spasm of the vessel, or its blockage (ischemic stroke), or even rupture of the vessel wall (hemorrhagic stroke).

⇒ Dehydration and intoxication. Loss of fluid at temperature complicates the work of the cardiovascular system. The body is forced to “jump” through the usual mechanisms of pressure regulation, trying to cope with intoxication, which makes the vessels vulnerable.

Tatiana Vinogradova reminded that the human body is a habitat for many microorganisms. Autumn winds, rain, irregular diet or stress weaken the defenses of the immune system, and at this point they activate and go into attack, additionally straining the immune system and distracting it from vascular control.

Given the severity of possible complications, the specialist stressed the importance of preventive measures. In particular, people at risk (suffering from hypertension, heart disease or diabetes mellitus) are strongly advised to get flu shots in a timely manner.

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