Can Prolonged Standing Increase Stroke Risk?
New Delhi: Experts have warned that individuals whose jobs require prolonged standing—such as retail workers, hairdressers, and factory employees may face an increased risk of stroke.
Globally, the number of new stroke cases has surged to 11.9 million in 2021, a 70% increase since 1990. Similarly, stroke-related deaths rose to 7.3 million, marking a 44% rise over the same period. Stroke is now the third leading cause of death worldwide, following ischemic heart disease and Covid-19. Despite its prevalence, experts emphasize that stroke is preventable and treatable with timely interventions.
Dr. Raghvendra Ramdasi, Consultant Neurosurgeon at Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai, explained that standing for extended durations can lead to blood pooling in the legs, slowing overall circulation. “This inefficient blood flow can contribute to clot formation, which in turn raises stroke risk, especially if these clots travel to the brain,” he said. Ramdasi added that poor circulation over time could also elevate blood pressure, another significant stroke risk factor.
Recent research from Australia involving over 83,000 participants highlighted the health risks associated with prolonged standing or sitting, including varicose veins and feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness. The study emphasized the need for regular movement to improve circulation. It found that prolonged standing can cause blood to pool in the legs, increasing the potential for blood clots.
Dr. Vikram Huded, HOD and Director of Interventional Neurology at Narayana Group, cautioned that these clots could dislodge and travel to the brain, particularly in individuals with a heart defect, potentially resulting in an ischemic stroke. “Clots moving from the legs to the brain could block blood flow, causing a stroke,” Huded noted.
Experts recommend that individuals with existing heart disease, high blood pressure, or a family history of stroke should be particularly vigilant. They should take regular breaks to move around and improve circulation. Dr. Ramdasi and Dr. Huded both stressed that staying active and making periodic movements during work hours could help reduce the risk of stroke in such individuals.
With simple lifestyle modifications, the potential risk of stroke can be significantly reduced, underscoring the importance of awareness, early detection, and timely treatment.
Nidhi Srivastava is a dietician. She holds a post-graduate degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from MRIIRS. With a profound passion for utilizing nutrition and lifestyle modifications to manage diseases, she is dedicated to advancing the field through rigorous research and fact-checking. Her expertise lies in evidence-based practice, ensuring the highest standards of dietary health and wellness.