Stroke related to cocaine use

Definition

Stroke related to cocaine use is a blockage in the blood supply to the brain and loss of brain function in someone who has used the drug, cocaine.

Causes

Cocaine is a product of the coca plant and an illegal recreational drug. It is a strong stimulant that increases activity of the central nervous system and the nerves that run away from the spinal cord (peripheral nervous system).

Cocaine use can cause a number of medical problems. Stroke related to cocaine probably occurs because cocaine causes blood vessels to narrow (constrict) while it increases blood pressure (hypertension). This vasoconstriction can be severe enough to reduce or block blood flow through the arteries in the brain. Cocaine use also can lead to swelling (inflammation) of the arteries of the brain.

Stroke related to cocaine is most common in men under 40 years old. A history of recent cocaine use is a risk.

A few people who experience stroke after using cocaine have an arteriovenous malformation, which may make them more likely to have a stroke. In these cases the stroke is due to bleeding in the brain instead of decreased blood flow.

References

Egred M, Davis GK. Cocaine and the heart. Postgrad Med J. 2005 Sep;81(959):568-71. Review.

Velasquez EM, Anand RC, Newman WP 3rd, Richard SS, Glancy DL. Cardiovascular complications associated with cocaine use. J La State Med Soc. 2004 Nov-Dec;156(6):302-10; quiz 311. Review.

Lucas CE. The impact of street drugs on trauma care. J Trauma. 2005 Sep;59(3 Suppl):S57-60; discussion S67-75.