Stroke
(Kathy)

A stroke is the developing lost of brain function due to the disturbance in the blood supply to the brain.

The of the lack of blood to the brain can be due to:
  • Thrombosis-a clot to the blood vessels.
  • Embolism-the obstruction of the blood vessels by a foreign or abnormal particle.
  • Hemorrhage-a large discharge of blood from the blood vessels.
    As a result, the affected area of the brain is unable to function, leading to:
  • The inability to move one or more limbs on one side of the body.
  • The inability to understand or formulate speech.
  • The inability to see one side a visual field.
    A stroke is also referred to as cerebrovascular accident or CVA.

    A stroke is a medical emergency. It can cause permanent neurological damage, complications, and death. A stroke is the leading cause of disability in adults in the United States and Europe. Worldwide, it is the second leading cause of death.

    The risk factors for a stroke are:
  • Advanced age
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • A previous stroke
  • Diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • Cigarette smoking
  • Atrial fibrillation
    If you have any of these risk factors, consult with your doctor and find out how you can reduce your risks of a stroke.

    Sources:

  • National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke - National Institutes of Health (USA)
  • The Stroke Association (UK)
  • American Stroke Association (USA)
  • National Stroke Association (USA)
  • Study of Outcome of Childhood Stroke (UK)
  • Canadian Stroke Network





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