Use of Illegal Drugs
Drug abuse is also frequently associated with stroke, especially heroin, cocaine, amphetamines, and cannabis.
Heroin-associated strokes are often attributed to mycotic aneurysm, a condition primarily caused by endocarditis. This occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream and reach the heart. The bacteria may stick to the heart tissue and valves, damaging the lining and causing a stroke. A mycotic aneurysm is common among IV drug users who might use contaminated needles.
For cocaine and amphetamines users, stroke typically occurs secondary to elevated blood pressure and body temperature levels and decreased oxygen levels in the blood.
Meanwhile, the use of cannabis has been associated with ischemic stroke cases. Although very limited data is available to show how the substance may interrupt blood flow to the brain, experts highly discourage the abuse of this substance.
Drug abuse is the common cause of stroke among the youth only because they comprise a good percentage of the group. But strokes induced by illegal drug use may happen to anyone, young and old.
