Strokes are more likely to happen to people who have certain risk factors. The more risk factors you have, the more likely you are to have a stroke. Major stroke risk factors include:
Other risk factors for stroke are:
Luckily, for most of these other risk factors there are preventative measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of having a stroke. If you have any of these risk factors, talk to your doctor to figure out what lifestyle changes you can make.
The symptoms of a stroke are the same for men and women. Knowing the signs and symptoms of a stroke can help you lessen brain damage and potentially save a life. Signs of a stroke can happen suddenly and include:
If you feel signs of a stroke or see them in someone else, seek help immediately. Getting help as soon as possible is crucial for those who are suffering from a stroke. Treatments work best if the stroke is recognized and diagnosed within three hours of the first symptoms. An easy way to memorize the symptoms of a stroke in yourself or someone else is by using the letters in F.A.S.T.
Face: Is the face drooping or is it numb? When you smile, is it uneven or lopsided?
Arm Weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Raise both arms – does one drift down?
Speech: Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or difficult to understand when asked to repeat a simple sentence?
Time to call 9-1-1: If any of these symptoms are present, even if they go away, it’s time to call 9-1-1 and get to a hospital immediately.
There are three main types of strokes:
A transient ischemic attack is also referred to as a mini stroke and usually acts as a warning. Any temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain causes a TIA and symptoms only last for a short period of time.
A majority of the strokes that happen are ischemic strokes. These types of strokes happen when blood flow is blocked through the artery that provides blood to the brain. The blockages in ischemic strokes are usually caused by blood clots.
Hemorrhagic strokes happen when a brain artery leaks blood or ruptures. Aneurysms and high blood pressure can cause hemorrhagic strokes. There are two different types of hemorrhagic strokes:
A stroke can have life-altering consequences if not treated quickly. Strokes affect the brain which controls a majority of human life functions including blood pressure, breathing and many more.
Side effects of strokes may include:
Banner Brain & Spine’s compassionate and knowledgeable staff is here to help if you’ve suffered a stroke. If you think you or someone you care about are experiencing any stroke symptoms, call 911 and get to a hospital immediately.