Stroke
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to
a part of the brain is interrupted causing
death of brain cells. The most common type
of stroke is called an ischemic stroke and
is caused by a blood clot or plaque buildup
in an artery that supplies blood to the
brain.
FACTS ABOUT STROKE
- stroke is the 3rd leading cause of
death in the U.S.
- stroke is the leading cause of
serious long term disability
- about 795,000 strokes occur yearly
in the US.
- strokes can and do occur at any age
with about 25% of strokes occurring in
people less than age 65
- the Southeastern region has the
highest stroke mortality rates in the
U.S.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
An ischemic stroke often occurs without any
warning signs or symptoms. Symptoms can
occur intermittently and resolve quickly,
which is an event called a TIA (Transient
Ischemic Attack) or mini-stroke. Warning
signs of an impending stroke can include:
- sudden loss of or slurring of speech
- weakness or numbness of the arms,
legs, or face
- confusion
- visual changes
- sudden, severe headache, dizziness,
loss of balance, or gait disturbances
RISK FACTORS FOR STROKE
Many strokes are caused by atherosclerosis
or “hardening of the arteries “, a disease
which can begin at a young age and progress
throughout life. Factors associated with an
increased risk of stroke include:
- high blood pressure
- high cholesterol levels
- diabetes
- tobacco use
- obesity
- physical inactivity
- age
- male gender
A person can reduce their risk of stroke
by lifestyle and behavioral changes such as
controlling blood pressure, stopping
smoking, eating healthy and exercising
regularly.
DIAGNOSIS
Once symptoms of stroke occur the diagnosis
is made by physical exam and a variety of
tests including CT Scans and MRI scans.
SafeHeart Health Screens’ non-invasive tests
can help you assess your risk for stroke.
