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Stroke

There are two type of stroke, ischemic and hemorrhagic. An ischemic stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked or reduced. This prevents brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die in minutes. Another type of stroke is a hemorrhagic stroke. It occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or bursts and causes bleeding in the brain. The blood increases pressure on brain cells and damages them.

A stroke is a medical emergency. It’s crucial to get medical treatment right away. Getting emergency medical help quickly can reduce brain damage and other stroke complications.

The good news is that fewer Americans die of stroke now than in the past. Effective treatments also can help prevent disability from stroke.

Symptoms

If you or someone you’re with may be having a stroke, pay attention to the time the symptoms began. Some treatments are most effective when given soon after a stroke begins.

Symptoms of stroke include:

Trouble speaking and understanding what others are saying

A person having a stroke may be confused, slur words or may not be able to understand speech.

Numbness, weakness or paralysis in the face, arm or leg

This often affects just one side of the body. The person can try to raise both arms over the head. If one arm begins to fall, it may be a sign of a stroke. Also, one side of the mouth may droop when trying to smile.

Problems seeing in one or both eyes

The person may suddenly have blurred or blackened vision in one or both eyes. Or the person may see double.

Headache

A sudden, severe headache may be a symptom of a stroke. Vomiting, dizziness and a change in consciousness may occur with the headache.

Trouble walking

Someone having a stroke may stumble or lose balance or coordination.

Risk Factors

That you can control:

  • High blood pressure
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Diet
  • Physical inactivity
  • Obesity
  • High cholesterol
  • Atrial Fibrillation
  • Sleep apnea
  • Sickle cell Disease
  • Carotid Artery Disease
  • Peripheral Artery Disease
  • Other heart Diseases

That you can’t control:

  • Age
  • Family history
  • Race
  • Gender
  • Prior Stroke, TIA or Heart Attack

Early Signs

Because of the sudden onset nature of stroke it is important to understands the symptoms of an ongoing stroke and call for help immediately as every minute counts. An easy way to remember when to call for help is through the acronym FAST:

  • Face Drooping
  • Arm Weakness
  • Speech Difficulty
  • Time to call 911

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