Stroke

Stroke

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or severely reduced depriving the brain tissue of oxygen and food. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. A transient ischemic attack (TIA) - sometimes called a ministroke - temporarily disrupts blood flow through the brain.

There are two chief types of stroke: 1. Hemorrhagic stroke - occurs when a blood vessel leaks or bursts2. Ischemic stroke - results from blockage in an artery

Symptoms of stroke:1. Confusion, slurring of speech, unable to find the right words.2. Trouble walking - experience sudden dizziness, loss of balance & coordination3. Paralysis or numbness on one side of the body or face4. Sudden severe headache accompanied by vomiting, altered consciousness

Major risk factors for stroke:1. High blood pressure2. Heart Disease 3. DiabetesSecondary risk factors:1.Cigarette smoking2. Physical inactivity3. Elevated blood cholesterol and lipids4. Alcohol consumption

Most common ischemic strokes are: 1. Embolic stroke - a blood clot forms in a blood vessel away from the brain and is swept through the bloodstream to lodge in narrower brain arteries.2. Thrombotic stroke - a blood clot forms in one of the arteries that supply blood to the brain.

One can prevent stroke by making healthy lifestyle choices: 1. Eating a healthy diet2. Maintain a healthy weight3. Getting enough exercise4. Not smoking 5. Limit alcohol use