Stroke

According to the American Stroke Association, "stroke is the number one cause of adult disability and the third leading cause of death in the US". A stroke is defined as a loss in brain function due to lack of oxygen to a part or parts of the brain. It is also called a Cerebralvascular Accident (CVA) or a "brain attack". Strokes are divided into three categories:

• Ischemic Strokes: This is the most common kind of stroke that occurs when blood flow is totally or partially blocked
• Thrombotic Stroke - when plaque clogs the arteries
• Embolic Stroke - usually a blood clot but can also be other materials such as bone marrow
• Hemorrhagic Stroke: This stroke occurs when a blood vessel bursts open and bleeds into the brain. These strokes are typically more life-threatening and their prognosis is less favorable. This usually occurs due to weakening or ballooning of the blood vessel walls.
• Transient Ischemic Attacks: Commonly called "mini-strokes", these are strokes where no symptoms remain after relatively short period of time (a few days). Patients typically recover function because the blood flow is only temporarily cut off to the brain.

Stroke Warning Signs

• Sudden focal and severe headache
• Dizziness
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty swallowing
• Sudden paralysis/weakness (especially if on one side of the body)
• Loss of facial sensation
• Sudden loss of sight on one side

Risk Factors for Stroke

• High blood pressure
• High holesterol
• Diabetes
• Previous stroke / TIA
• Substance abuse
• Obesity