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.
To learn more:
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Information Office
Phone: 301-496-5751
Web: www.ninds.nih.gov
National High Blood Pressure Education Program
c/o NHLBI Information Center
Phone: 301-592-8573
June 2008