Overview
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 Rs 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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Resources of Cardiovascular Disease
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