Stroke happens when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot (ischemic stroke) or ruptures (hemorrhagic stroke). When either happens, part of the brain cannot get oxygen, and some brain cells die.
The brain is the main organ of your nervous system. It:
- Receives and interprets information from your senses such as vision, hearing, and smelling
- Allows for thinking, planning, remembering, and problem-solving
Strokes affect the brain differently depending on location:
- A stroke on the left side of the brain weakens the right side of the body
- A stroke on the right side of the brain weakens the left side of the body
- A stroke at the back of the brain may affect vision
- A stroke where the brain and spinal cord meet (brain stem) can affect overall movement and communication
According to the American Stroke Association, up to 80% of strokes may be prevented. Prevention involves making a plan with your doctor to modify personal risk factors such as:
- High blood pressure
- Atrial fibrillation
- High blood sugar
- Overweight or obesity
- A diet high in saturated or trans fats, sugar, salt, or extra calories
- High cholesterol
- Inactivity, or not exercising enough
- Using tobacco
Stroke is an emergency. Learn and share the FAST warning signs developed by the American Heart Association. Call 911 immediately if these signs are present:
- F: Face Drooping
- A: Arm Weakness
- S: Speech Difficulty
- T: Time to call 9-1-1
Getting treatment early after a stroke can make the difference with long-term outcomes, movement, and brain function. It can improve the quality of life as survivors learn new ways of going about their lives. From diagnosis to early treatment to learning new routines, according to the American Stroke Association, ‘There is life – and hope – after stroke’.
For more information about prevention strategies, stroke, or life after stroke, go to https://www.stroke.org