The Link Between Alcohol Use and Stroke Risk: Can Excessive Drinking Cause a Stroke?
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Many of us have asked this question: can alcohol cause a stroke? It's a scary topic, but it doesn't have to be a downer. While science shows that drinking can, in fact, lead to a stroke (especially for those who drink regularly), understanding the connection puts the power back in your hands and might serve as a bit of extra motivation to start considering cutting back or quitting. We’re not talking about a major overhaul here — even the smallest changes in our routine can make a huge difference. Let’s find out more!
While a glass of wine or a pint of beer might seem harmless, when it comes to stroke, it's the long-term effects we need to worry about. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic — also known as paralytic stroke — caused by a blockage preventing blood flow to the brain, and hemorrhagic, due to bleeding within the brain. Ischemic stroke is by far the most common, accounting for about 87% of all cases.
Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke can be vital for timely treatment. Here are the common signs:
Remember, these symptoms often appear suddenly, and they may occur together. Time is a key factor in treating a stroke, so acting quickly can make a significant difference in recovery. Many people use the acronym "FAST" to remember these signs:
Unfortunately, alcohol can increase our risk for both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. Here’s how:
Recent studies confirm the link between alcohol and stroke risk. According to a comprehensive review by Tulane University scientists, consuming 5 or more drinks per day puts us in the “high risk” category when it comes to stroke risk. The scientists conclude that the effect is due to the fact that having more than 2 drinks increases hypertension — a direct contributing factor to stroke.
Those of us who are younger (or cockier) may shrug off these risks, thinking, "Okay, so I might get a stroke, but I'm willing to take that chance." However, it’s important to remember that a stroke can bring a tidal wave of problems that can drastically change your life in ways you might never have anticipated.
When talking about the link between alcohol and stroke, we should also mention one of the most common ways to treat it. Blood thinners, or anticoagulants, are medications that are prescribed to prevent blood clots from forming or growing larger. These medications are critical for those with conditions such as atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, or people who have undergone certain surgeries that may increase the risk of clotting.
The interplay between blood thinners and alcohol, however, is a tricky one. Alcohol can have an anticoagulant effect by itself, which means that when combined with blood thinning medications, the risk of bleeding can increase.
Moreover, alcohol can affect the metabolism of blood thinner medications, potentially decreasing their effectiveness or, conversely, leading to an increased risk of bleeding. It’s always crucial to ask healthcare providers for advice!
So, can alcohol cause a stroke? As we can see, the link is there, and we shouldn’t ignore it. But is there anything you can do to stay safe and lower your risk? Absolutely!
Choosing to cut back or quit drinking is a big decision, but it can potentially save your life. It might not always be easy, but remember, every small step towards this goal is a victory. So here's to a healthier you, less alcohol, and a lower risk of stroke!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
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