Can dehydration lead to stroke, as mentioned by Zerodha's Nithin Kamath?

New Delhi, Feb 27 (IANS) Dehydration could lead to strokes, doctors warned after Zerodha co-founder Nithin Kamath mentioned it as a possible reason for his recent stroke. Kamath revealed his health scare on Monday, citing dehydration along with other factors like poor sleep and exhaustion.

“Dehydration involves losing more fluids from our bodies than what is gained thereby causing an electrolyte imbalance in the body hence affecting various body functions,” explained Dr. Guruprasad Hosurkar. Another expert, Koulsoum Houssein, emphasized the lesser-known effect of severe dehydration in increasing the risk of stroke development.

Thickening of blood due to dehydration can slow down blood flow to the organs, including the brain, elevating the risk of blood clot formation and stroke, the doctors highlighted. Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, including reducing the risk of strokes, they added.

A study published in the Lancet journal eBioMedicine last year showed that inadequate hydration can accelerate aging and increase the risk of chronic diseases which could lead to early death. Not consuming enough water may raise the risk of death by 20 percent, the study revealed.

While stroke is often associated with old age and pre-existing conditions like hypertension and diabetes, young and fit individuals can also be at risk, the doctors emphasized. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are essential preventive measures.

Kamath, known for his fitness advice, urged people to stay fit but also questioned why someone who cares for their health could still be affected by a stroke. The doctors emphasized the importance of recognizing underlying cardiovascular conditions, congenital heart diseases, or abnormalities in blood vessels that can go unnoticed in young people.