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About Stroke
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Risk Factors
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Types of Stroke
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Treatment
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Rehabilitation
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Effects of Stroke |
Stroke, also called brain attack, occurs when
blood flow to the brain is disrupted.
Disruption in blood flow is caused when
either a blood clot or piece of plaque blocks one of the vital blood vessels
in the brain (ischemic stroke), or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts,
spilling blood into surrounding tissues (hemorrhagic stroke).
The brain needs a constant supply of oxygen
and nutrients in order to function. Even a brief interruption in blood
supply can cause problems. Brain cells begin to die after just a few minutes
without blood or oxygen. The area of dead cells in tissues is called an
infarct. Due to both the physical and chemical changes that occur in the
brain with stroke, damage can continue to occur for several days. This is
called a stroke-in-evolution.
A loss of brain function occurs with brain
cell death. This may include impaired ability with movement, speech,
thinking and memory, bowel and bladder, eating, emotional control, and other
vital body functions. Recovery from stroke and the specific ability affected
depends on the size and location of the stroke. A small stroke may result in
only minor problems such as weakness in an arm or leg. Larger strokes may
cause paralysis (inability to move part of the body), loss of speech, or
even death.
According to the National Stroke Association
(NSA), it is important to learn the three R's of stroke:
- Reduce the risk.
- Recognize the symptoms.
- Respond by calling 911 (or your local
ambulance service).
Stroke is an emergency and should be treated
as such. The greatest chance for recovery from stroke occurs when emergency
treatment is started immediately.
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