admin
strokes.
One that occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked by clot or other plaque or fatty deposits, which is called ischemic stroke.
This is the most common type, comprising approximately 85 percent of all strokes.
The other type, hemorrhagic stroke, occurs when a blood vessel in the brain breaks, leaking blood into the brain.
Strokes can be mild, or can be quite disabling, even fatal, depending on the brain area involved and the type of stroke. Recognising symptoms and acting fast to get medical attention can save a life and limit disabilities.
Symptoms
Stroke symptoms occur suddenly and without warning.
Common symptoms are: weakness or numbness, often on one side of the body or face.
Other symptoms include: slurred or abnormal speech
- confusion
- visual loss or double vision
- dizziness
- balance problems and
- severe headache
How can you tell if someone is having a stroke?
Use the FAST test:
F for Face. Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
A for Arms. Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S for Speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Does the speech sound slurred or strange?
T for Time. If you observe any of these signs, get to the nearest stroke center or hospital.
Common risk factors Many strokes, up to 80 percent are preventable.
Knowing the common risk factors is critical.
These include: high blood pressure
- uncontrolled diabetes
- abnormal cholesterol levels
- smoking and alcohol abuse
- obesity
- an irregular heart disease (atrial fibrillation)
For women, frequent migraine headaches
- birth control pills
- advancing age (30-40s),
These are however, all modifiable risk factors, with behavioral changes like healthy diet and exercise, or various medication therapies. Anyone with at least one of these risk factors should discuss strategies for management with their primary care physician.- http://live.psu.edu/story/53538
National Stroke Association
Online Reporter