Stroke In Children

Stroke In Children

Pediatric Stroke

What causes ischemic stroke in children?

Finding the cause of a stroke is vital to provid­ing the right treatment and preventing more injury. Doctors can find a cause in about two-thirds of the cases.



A common cause of ischemic strokes is that a blood clot forms in the heart and travels to the brain. This can be caused by congenital heart problems such as abnormal valves or infections. In these cases children may need surgery or antibiotics.



Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder that’s associated with ischemic stroke. In sickle cell disease, the blood cell can’t carry oxygen to the brain, and blood vessels leading to the brain may have narrowed or closed. About 10 percent of children with sickle cell disease suffer a stroke¹. There is a high risk of repeat strokes, but this can be reduced by blood transfusion.



Finally, ischemic strokes can be caused by trauma that injures large arteries and causes a loss of blood flow. For instance, a large artery might be injured when a child has a neck injury.



¹ Cooperative Study of Sickle Cell Disease

What causes hemorrhagic stroke in children?

Will my child get better?

What are the effects of stroke in children?

New Pediatric Stroke Resources

Thanks to the International Alliance for Pediatric Stroke's hard work and dedication, we are excited to share new pediatric stroke resources. Help us spread pediatric stroke awareness with these new tools: 

• What is Pediatric Stroke? Infographic
• Check out Alex's Stroke Story
• Watch Rhys' Stroke Story
• Dr. Ichord Discusses the Importance of Spreading Awareness