Understanding Stroke
What is a stroke?
A stroke happens when blood flow to a part of your brain stops, which deprives your brain of the oxygen and nutrients it needs. A stroke can cause a large number of brain cells to die, which could lead to lasting damage or death.
There are several different types of strokes.
Ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke. This type of stroke happens when a clot or obstruction within a blood vessel cuts off blood to the brain. The obstruction is usually caused by fatty deposits in the lining of the vessel walls, called “atherosclerosis.”
Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a weakened blood vessel ruptures and bleeds into the surrounding brain, compressing the surrounding brain tissue. The two types of weakened blood vessels that usually cause hemorrhagic stroke include aneurysms and arteriovenous malfunctions (AVMs).
An aneurysm is the abnormal bulging of an artery caused by weakness in the vessel wall. As the aneurysm grows, it may cause symptoms such as severe headaches and nausea. If left untreated, it could rupture, resulting in a stroke or death.
Are you at risk?
The first step in preventing a stroke is understanding your risk factors. There are some risk factors you can’t control including age and family history. But there are many more risk factors that you can control and treat.
What you can do to prevent a stroke
What you can do:
- Eat a healthier diet and reduce your salt intake
- Enjoy regular physical activity
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Reduce or manage stress
- Take your medications as prescribed
- Limit the amount of alcohol your drink
What you can do:
- Nicotine replacement therapy
- Talk to your doctor about prescription medication
- Smoking cessation programs
- Avoid second-hand smoke when possible
What you can do:
- Have regular check ups with your doctor to prevent, treat and control these conditions
What you can do:
- Eat a heart-healthy diet
- Stay physically active
- Work with your doctor to manage your heart disease
What you can do:
- Eat a heart-healthy diet
- Avoid food high in saturated fats, such as fast food, fatty cuts of meat, and full fat dairy
- Take your medication as prescribed by your doctor
What you can do:
- Eat foods that are low in sodium and saturated fat
- Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day
- Exercise at least 30 minutes per day
B.E. F.A.S.T. - Recognize the signs of stroke symptoms.
Get medical help immediately if you recognize these warning signs.
Balance or dizziness
Eyes or blurred vision
Face drooping
Arm weakness
Speech difficulty
Time to call 911
Stroke support.
Whether you've experienced a stroke or you care for a loved one that has had a stroke, we are here for you with a variety of resources and support, including patient and caregiver guides and support groups.