What is a stroke?

As a result of this disruption in blood flow or ruptured blood vessel, 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.

Stroke statistics

• In Canada, a stroke occurs every 9 minutes. 
• Every year, 62,000 Canadians die or are left severely disabled following a stroke. 
• For every minute delay in treating a stroke, a patient loses 1.9 million brain cells.

Stroke warning signs 

A stroke can be treated, which is why it’s so important to know 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

If you recognize any of these signs, dial 911 immediately.

Stroke risk factors

• Age: For every decade over the age of 55, the risk for stroke doubles
• Gender: Men are more likely to have a stroke, but women tend to die more often from it 
• Family history
• Ethnicity (Aboriginal peoples and people of African, South Asian or Hispanic descent)
• History of stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack or mini-stroke) 

Other risk factors you can control 

• High blood pressure   
• High cholesterol   
• Heart disease – atrial fibrillation 
• Diabetes   
• Being overweight (BMI)  
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Poor diet/high-salt diet
• Lack of physical exercise
• Smoking   
• Stress  

Pharmacy services

Questions on strokes or other types of heart disease? Ask your family pharmacist to help you assess your risk for heart disease.