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Stroke

A stroke happens when the brain does not get enough blood. This kills brain cells. Many adults die from strokes.

Strokes can change the way a person thinks, speaks, sees, and moves. After a stroke, it may be harder to care for yourself or to have a job.

The good news is many people who have had a stroke can get back some or all of their skills. Speech and physical therapy can help. The good news is many people who have had a stroke can get back some or all of their skills. Speech and physical therapy can help.

There are two major causes of stroke:

• A blood clot from another part of the body blocks a blood vessel or artery in the brain.
• An artery bleeds in or around the brain.

Who Has Strokes?

• Adults over the age of 40 are most likely to have strokes. Younger adults and kids can also have them.
• About the same number of men and women have strokes.
• People of all races are at risk for stroke. African Americans are almost twice as likely to die from a stroke as whites. African Americans often have more damage.
• People with heart disease may have a bigger risk of stroke. Certain kinds of heart disease can cause blood clots.

How can you lower your risk of stroke?

• Control your blood pressure— Having high blood pressure adds to the chances of having a stroke. One out of three people with high blood pressure does not know it. Get your blood pressure checked often.
• Control your diabetes—Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the brain and increase the chance of having a stroke. Follow your doctor’s advice to control your diabetes.
• Stop smoking—Smoking can cause blood clots. It can also make blood pressure higher. Ask your doctor, pharmacist or nurse about ways to quit.
• Exercise daily—Exercise makes the heart stronger and blood flow better. It can also help you control your weight. Being heavy increases the chance of diseases.

Don't ignore the signs of a stroke. Even if you feel better in a few minutes or hours, you may have had a "mini-stroke". Mini-strokes may put you at risk for a full-blown stroke later. Call 911 if you have any of these warning signs: (or have someone else call right away):

• Your face feels numb
• Your arm or leg gets weak or numb
• You lose part or all of your sight in one or both eyes
• You have a hard time talking and/or understanding other people
• You get a very bad headache for no reason
• You get dizzy or fall all of the sudden

FDA has approved a few drugs to prevent and treat stroke. Ask your doctor for more information.

June 2008

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