Medically Reviewed By Susan W. Lee, DO
— Written By Heather Smith RN, BSN
Updated on February 16, 2023
With a cryptogenic stroke, a doctor may be able to identify whether it is ischemic or hemorrhagic, but they cannot determine the root cause. About 15–40% of all strokes are cryptogenic strokes.
Read on to learn more about cryptogenic strokes. Learn their cause, symptoms, and treatments.
What causes a cryptogenic stroke?
A cryptogenic stroke, also known as a stroke of undetermined etiology, occurs when healthcare professionals cannot determine the cause.
About
Several underlying factors may play a role in the cause of a cryptogenic stroke. These include having:
- atrial fibrillation and other atrial cardiopathies
- patent foramen ovale, which is a hole in the heart between the two atrial chambers
- narrowing of the arteries from plaque buildup
Health experts divide cryptogenic strokes into two categories: cryptogenic embolism and other cryptogenic strokes.
Cryptogenic embolism is when doctors see evidence of where blood flow stops in an otherwise typical-looking blood vessel.
“Other cryptogenic” is the term for strokes that do not meet the criteria of a cryptogenic embolism.
Learn more about what can cause a stroke.
What are the symptoms of a cryptogenic stroke?
Cryptogenic stroke symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other types of strokes. They depend on which area of the brain is not getting blood but
- sudden numbness, weakness, or facial drooping on one side of the body
- sudden confusion, difficulty speaking, or trouble understanding others
- vision problems
- sudden dizziness or loss of balance
- sudden severe headache
Learn more about the warning signs of a stroke.
What are the treatments for a cryptogenic stroke?
When a person has a stroke, the healthcare team’s goal is to quickly identify and treat the source
In the case of a cryptogenic stroke, when the team cannot find the cause of a cryptogenic stroke, treatment focuses on reducing the risk of future blood clots and possible risk factors.
Treatment
- medications to prevent blood clots, such as antiplatelet therapy or anticoagulation
- managing high blood pressure
- managing diabetes
- managing cholesterol
- maintaining a moderate weight
- increasing physical activity if necessary
- smoking cessationif necessary
What can I expect during recovery from a cryptogenic stroke?
The recovery process after a cryptogenic stroke depends on the severity of your stroke and overall health.
Some people may have slight numbness or weakness on one side of the body. Other people may have complete paralysis on one side and other difficulties, such as swallowing, bladder, and bowel control.
Your doctor may recommend physical, occupational, and speech therapies for rehabilitation. Specialists will help you regain functioning as much as possible. They can also teach you modified ways of doing daily activities.
Learn more about recovery after a stroke.
Call 911 or local emergency services for someone experiencing stroke symptoms. The faster treatment is started, the better the outcome.
How do doctors diagnose a cryptogenic stroke?
Diagnosing a cryptogenic stroke can be a complex process. When a person is suspected of having a stroke, doctors first ask about their medical history and perform a physical assessment.
Tests
If these tests come back negative, doctors may look at the electrical conductivity and structure of the heart. Lab tests and imaging studies of your blood vessels may also give clues to the cause of the stroke.
If doctors still do not find the cause, they may diagnose your experience as a cryptogenic stroke.
What are the risk factors for a cryptogenic stroke?
A person can have a stroke at any age. However, the following increase your risk of a cryptogenic stroke:
- heart disease
- previous stroke
- family history of stroke
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- high cholesterol
- obesity
- sickle cell disease
- sedentary lifestyle
- smoking
- excess alcohol consumption
- frequently eating foods high in saturated and trans fats, and cholesterol
What are the possible complications of a cryptogenic stroke?
Falls and difficulties with balance are
Some people have lasting problems with speaking and understanding language. Others may not be able to control their bowel or bladder.
Depression is also a common complication after a stroke. Watch for signs of depression in your loved one, or speak with your doctor if you are experiencing depression.
Learn more about complications that can occur after a stroke.
Can I prevent a cryptogenic stroke?
Although it may not be possible to prevent a cryptogenic stroke completely, the
- controlling blood pressure and cholesterol
- managing medical conditions such as diabetes and heart disease
- quitting smoking if you smoke
- consuming a diet high in vegetables, fruit, and fiber
- avoiding foods high in saturated and trans fats, and cholesterol
- regular exercise
- quality sleep
- maintaining a moderate weight
- limiting alcohol intake
Your doctor can offer more advice on ways to reduce stroke risk.
Summary
A cryptogenic stroke is a stroke of undeterminable cause.
Symptoms of a cryptogenic stroke are similar to other strokes, including weakness on one side of the body and difficulty speaking. If anyone is experiencing symptoms of a stroke, call 911 or local emergency services.
Doctors typically treat cryptogenic strokes with medications to prevent blood clots. They will also suggest managing health conditions that may raise your risk of strokes.
The faster a person experiencing a stroke receives treatment, the better their outcome. It’s essential to seek treatment immediately to decrease the risk of complications.
