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What is a stroke?
Stroke is a "brain attack" which occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked by blood clots, narrowed blood vessels or bleeding in the brain. Brain cells begin to die within minutes when they are deprived of vital blood flow and oxygen. These brain cells are essential in our everyday lives since they control everything we do such as talking, walking, and breathing.
What is the impact of stroke?
Stroke occurs in about 700,000 Americans each year. This correlates to a stroke occurring on an average of every 45 seconds. An estimated 600,000 of these are thought to be preventable. Stroke kills more than 150,000 people a year. That is close to 1 out of every 16 deaths. It is the 3rd leading cause of death only behind heart disease and cancer. Americans will pay around $62 billion in 2007 for stroke-related medical costs and disability.
What are the risk factors for stroke?
Risk factors for stroke can be classified into two different categories: Modifiable (can be controlled) and Non-Modifiable (beyond our control).
Modifiable Stroke Risk Factors:
Heart disease
Diabetes
High cholesterol
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High blood pressure
Atrial fibrillation
Carotid artery disease
Warning signs or history of stroke
Lack of exercise
Smoking
Obesity
Excessive alcohol intake
Non-Modifiable Stroke Risk Factors:
Over the age of 55 for men
Over the age of 65 for women
Being a male (higher risk at younger age)
Race: African-American
Family history of stroke
What are the symptoms of a stroke?
There are different types of strokes and their symptoms vary. The most common symptoms include:
Sudden weakness or confusion
Weakness of face, leg, or arm especially on one side of the body
Trouble speaking or understanding speech
Sudden dimness or loss of vision in one or both eyes
Sudden severe headache with no known cause
Sudden dizziness
Loss of balance or unsteadiness
What can you do if you think someone may be having a stroke?
If you think someone may be having a stroke, act F.A.S.T. and follow the
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simple test in the table.
How can I prevent a stroke?
Know your blood pressure
Find out if you have an irregular heartbeat
If you smoke, stop
If you drink alcohol, do it in moderation: 1drink for women and 2 drinks for men
Find out if you have high cholesterol
If you have diabetes, take measures to control it
Exercise regularly
Eat a healthy diet
Find out if you have circulation problems which could increase the risk of stroke
If you experience any stroke symptoms, seek immediate medical attention
Where can I get more information about stroke prevention?
If you would like more information regarding stroke prevention you can talk to your pharmacist, physician, or other healthcare professional. Also you may visit either the website for the National Stroke Association at www.stroke.org or the American Stroke Association at www.strokeassociation.org. The American Stroke Association can also be reached at 1-888-4-STROKE (478-7653).
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