What causes strokes?
In Canada, a stroke occurs every 10 minutes; and, every year, 50,000 people die or are left severely disabled following a stroke.
What is a stroke?
A stroke is a sudden loss of brain function. It is caused by the interruption of blood flow to the brain (ischemic stroke) or the rupture of a blood vessel in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). As a result, brain cells (neurons) in the affected area die.
The after-effects of a stroke depend on the part of the brain involved and the extent of the damage. A stroke can impact any number of faculties, including the ability to walk, see, remember, talk, reason, read and write.
What are the types of strokes?
A stroke is a sudden loss of brain function. It is caused by the interruption of blood flow to the brain (ischemic stroke) or the rupture of a blood vessel in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke).
What are the risks of a stroke?
- Age: After age 55, the risk of stroke doubles every 10 years
- Gender: Men are more likely to have a stroke, but women tend to die more often from it
- Family history
- Ethnicity
- Prior stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack).
Warning signs of a stroke
Only 20 to 25 percent of people who suffer a stroke receive emergency care and treatment within three hours of the start of symptoms – the critical period during which clot-busting drugs are most effective.
Since a stroke must be treated quickly, it is important to recognize its warning signs:
- Weakness - Sudden loss of strength or sudden numbness in the face, arm or leg, even if temporary
- Trouble speaking - Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding or sudden confusion, even if temporary
- Vision problems - Sudden trouble with vision, even if temporary
- Headache - Sudden severe and unusual headache
- Dizziness - Sudden loss of balance, especially if accompanied by the other warning signs
To recognize the signs, just think FAST:
- Face
- Arms
- Speech
- Time
If you recognize any of these signs, dial 911 immediately.
Treatments
A stroke requires immediate medical attention. Medication can be taken afterwards to prevent the formation of blood clots.
To learn more
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* The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.