|
Stroke
Stroke is the number 3 cause of death among Americans. It is also a
leading cause of serious, long-term disability. About 700,000 Americans
will have a new or recurrent stroke this year, and over 167,000 of them
will die. Four out of five families will either experience a stroke
directly or know someone who did. By 2050, the aging population will
increase and, with a significant spike in major risk factors, the number
of strokes is expected to double.
Stroke is a type of cerebral-vascular disease. It affects the
arteries leading to and within the brain. A stroke occurs when a blood
vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked
by a clot or bursts. When the artery is blocked, it is called an
ischemic stroke. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the
blood and nutrients necessary, and it starts to die. When the artery
bursts, it is called a hemorrhagic stroke, and the brain is damaged by
the gush of escaped blood.
STROKE WARNING SIGNS
- Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially
on one side of the body.
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or understanding.
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or
coordination.
- Sudden, severe headache with no known cause.
If you notice one or more of these signs, don’t wait. Get medical
help right away
STROKE PREVENTION
Stroke can be prevented. Take the Stroke Risk Quick Quiz on this
website to see if you are at risk for stroke. You can also schedule an
appointment with the Heart and Stroke Corner in Valley Vista Mall for a
risk assessment. You should discuss stroke prevention with your
physician.
Valley Baptist Medical Center has a dedicated team of physicians,
nurses, and support personnel providing round the clock care in the
Neuroscience Services Stroke Center. There is a full range of care
provided including: Emergency, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Imaging,
Critical Care, Ancillary, Rehabilitation, Home Health, and Pastoral
services.
QUIZ
Are you at risk for a stroke? Click
HERE to take this quick
quiz.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
|
|