Depression in stroke survivors might be a risk factor for a second stroke

This study investigated whether depression after stroke is a risk factor for a second stroke. Researchers suggested that stroke survivors with depression may be at a higher risk for a second stroke.

A stroke happens when the blood flow to the brain is blocked. The brain cells stop receiving oxygen and begin to die. The abilities controlled by these cells are lost causing symptoms such as paralysis. There are two main causes of a stroke, ischemic (the presence of a blood clot blocking blood flow to the brain) or a brain hemorrhage (when a blood vessel breaks).

It is known that stroke survivors are at high-risk for a second stroke. In general, the risk of a second stroke is around 11% within the first year after stroke. As a second stroke is associated with high mortality and poor recovery, identification of risk factors is very important.

Depression is the most common mental problem after stroke. Around one-third of stroke survivors have depression. It is important to evaluate whether depression is a predictive factor for a second stroke.

This study reviewed 6 other studies. It included information about 4648 patients with stroke. Depression was found in 15.9% to 40.5% of these patients. Recurrence was evaluated.

Stroke survivors with depression were 1.48 times more at risk of a second stroke. Ischemic stroke survivors were 1.28 times more at risk of a second stroke when compared to other stroke survivors.

This study concluded that depression in ischemic stroke survivors is a risk factor for a second stroke.  

This study was based on information from medical records. Data may have been missing. Further studies are needed.

If you have concerns about depressive symptoms, please discuss with your doctor.