Stroke

A stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, occurs when the brain's blood supply is interrupted. Within minutes, brain tissue starts to die and the patient experiences a sudden loss of brain function.

According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is the fifth cause of death and a leading cause of long-term disability in the U.S.

What are the types of stroke?

There are two main types of stroke: hemorrhagic and ischemic.

• Hemorrhagic stroke—A hemorrhagic stroke is either a brain aneurysm burst or a weakened blood vessel leak in which blood spills into or around the brain, creating increased pressure.
• Ischemic stroke—An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood vessel carrying blood to the brain is blocked by a blood clot, causing blood not to reach parts of the brain.

What are the signs and symptoms of a stroke?

Knowing the signs and symptoms of a stroke can help save lives.

If any of the below symptoms appear suddenly, call 911 and seek emergency care:

• Confusion, trouble speaking or trouble understanding
• Dizziness
• Numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Trouble walking or loss of balance or coordination
• Severe headache with no known cause

How can you tell if someone is having a stroke?

If you suspect someone is having a stroke, think "FAST." FAST is an acronym that stands for:

• Face: Is one side of the face drooping?
• Arms: Can they raise both arms? Does one drift downward?
• Speech: Are their words slurred? Can they repeat back a simple sentence?
• Time: Time is crucial. If you notice these symptoms, call 911.