Why Are Patients with Cerebral Infarction Prone to Obsessive-Compulsive Traits and Irritability?

Ischemic stroke is a common condition that significantly impacts patients’ daily lives. Patients typically require long-term medication, which effectively alleviates symptoms and helps prevent stroke recurrence. So why do ischemic stroke patients often exhibit paranoia and irritability?

Why Do Ischemic Stroke Patients Exhibit Paranoia and Irritability?

The reasons include substantial psychological stress and post-stroke sequelae. Following an ischemic stroke, patients may develop hemiplegia or paralysis—even becoming fully dependent on others for activities of daily living. This dependency leads to considerable psychological strain; up to 60% of stroke survivors experience depression. As family members, it is essential to offer care and empathetic understanding. Additionally, cerebral blood flow interruption and neuronal necrosis trigger alterations in central nervous system neurotransmitters—such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine—which in turn affect mood regulation and cognitive function.

We recommend promptly taking the patient to a physician for evaluation of disease severity. If necessary, pharmacological interventions should be initiated to improve mood—thereby facilitating motor recovery and restoration of self-care abilities. Moreover, patients with comorbid hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia (the “three highs”) must also strictly control blood pressure and blood glucose levels and reduce intracranial pressure.

In daily life, patients should maintain a positive mindset, actively cooperate with medical treatment, adhere strictly to prescribed medication regimens (both timing and dosage), and pay close attention to routine care—so as to promote timely clinical improvement. We hope this response has been helpful.