Infection with COVID-19 increases a person’s risk of having a stroke, no matter what their age is. The exact mechanism is unknown, but it is well-known that the virus causes an inflammatory response. This inflammation thickens the blood and increases the risk of blood clots forming and traveling to blood vessels in the brain. Furthermore, severe COVID-19 infections produce more blood clots than other illnesses caused by viruses. Research is ongoing, but here is what is known so far:
- Stroke risk is especially high within 3 days of diagnosis with COVID-19 infection. SOURCE
- The risk of having a stroke after being infected with COVID-19 is twice as high compared to those who are not infected. SOURCE
- COVID-19 infection increases a person’s stroke risk for about a month. SOURCE
- If one was already at risk of experiencing a stroke due to cardiovascular risk factors, COVID-19 infection increases that risk even more. SOURCE
- Older adults over the age of 65 are especially at high risk for their first stroke event after diagnosis, though stroke risk is high overall no matter what age group a person falls into. SOURCE
- At one year after COVID-19 infection, there is still a higher chance someone can experience a stroke compared to those who were not infected. SOURCE
- There were no differences observed in stroke risk due to sex, gender, or race and ethnicity. All demographics carried the same high risk. SOURCE
- Health outcomes are worse when experiencing both COVID-19 and stroke. SOURCE
- There is no risk of severe cardiovascular adverse events with the Pfizer or Moderna Vaccine. SOURCE
If you are infected with COVID-19, it is very important to follow your provider’s recommendations for treatment and/or therapies, and talk to them about your stroke risk. Sticking to your recovery plan can go a long way to reduce your risk for experiencing a stroke after COVID-19 infection. It is also very important that you, your family, your loved ones, and workplace know the signs of a stroke. BE FAST!
Prevention
- Get fully vaccinated and boosted, if you are able. Vaccines reduce the risk of developing severe illness and complications (including stroke), and hospitalizations.
- Find a vaccine locally using one of these vaccine finder tools at CDPHE or the CDC.
- There is no risk associated with severe cardiovascular events with the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines.
- Wear a mask in public places and crowds to protect yourself from COVID-19 transmission through air droplets.
- Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze using your sleeve or inner elbow.
- Sanitize surfaces at home and at work frequently.
- Wash your hands! Scrub for at least 30 seconds with soap and water.
- Stay home if you feel sick, and keep your family members at home if they also feel sick.
Colorado Stroke Advisory Board 