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A pediatric stroke is a stroke that occurs before the age of 18. It includes:
Stroke occurs when blood doesn’t flow to your brain as it should. It’s life-threatening and even though it’s more likely in adults, children and adolescents can sometimes have one. Common causes include heart disorders and blood clotting disorders. Strokes can also occur due to injuries that result from low oxygen to your child’s brain or conditions they’re born with (congenital conditions). Get prompt medical care as soon as you notice symptoms. Rehabilitation can also help your child recover.
Neonates (newborns less than 4 weeks old), infants, children and adolescents experience the same types of strokes that adults do:
Pediatric strokes are rare. Researchers estimate that there are 1 to 2 childhood stroke cases per 100,000 children (under age 18) each year. There is about 1 perinatal stroke per 3,500 live births. These numbers can be hard to estimate as strokes are challenging to diagnose.
A child who has a stroke may experience some of the same symptoms as adults:
Note: Many children, especially infants and young children, may not have typical stroke symptoms. Instead, they may have: Seizure, Headaches, Nausea and vomiting, Fatigue, Fever.
In general, a stroke happens when your child’s brain doesn’t get enough blood, either due to blood clots or brain bleeds. The two types are:
Common causes include:
Your child may be at a higher risk for a stroke if they have:
Many children who have a stroke tend to recover fully. But depending on which parts of their brains stroke affects, some children may have permanent changes to their thinking (cognitive) and speaking abilities. They may also be weaker on the affected side or have permanent vision changes. Children who have a stroke are also at a greater risk for developing epilepsy.
It can be challenging to diagnose pediatric stroke. Symptoms aren’t always recognizable, so some children don’t get treatment right away. Providers may later figure out your child had a stroke if your child experiences a developmental delay. To make a diagnosis, a healthcare provider talks with you about your child’s symptoms. They do a physical examination and may order certain tests for your child.
Pediatric stroke is a life-threatening emergency that needs immediate treatment. Call 911 (or your local emergency number) or visit the nearest emergency room if your child experiences stroke-like symptoms. Treatment depends on the type of stroke (and is time sensitive):
Each hospital has a dedicated stroke protocol (series of actions) for pediatric stroke to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
Each child’s recovery is different, but pediatric stroke rehabilitation is often necessary. They may receive care from a team of specialists, including:
Many children who have ischemic stroke survive. However, delayed diagnosis can affect health outcomes, and they may be at risk for another stroke, especially if they have heart problems or blood clotting disorders.
Pediatric stroke occurs for many different reasons, including congenital conditions. There’s no way to prevent certain conditions that may be present at birth.
Conditions during pregnancy that increase risk for perinatal strokes include Gestational diabetes, Preeclampsia, and Premature rupture of membranes.
Follow your provider’s instructions and ensure your child takes all medications as prescribed. Your child should also:
Appointment Reminder: Take your child to all scheduled appointments with their providers. Call your provider if you notice new symptoms.