A stroke happens when the brain
does not get enough blood. This
kills brain cells. Many adults die
from strokes.



Strokes can change the way a
person thinks, speaks, sees, and
moves. After a stroke, it may be
harder to care for yourself or to
have a job.


The good news is many people who
have had a stroke can get back
some or all of their skills. Speech
and physical therapy can help.


There are two major causes of
stroke::




  • A blood clot from another part of
    the body blocks a blood vessel or
    artery in the brain.

  • An artery bleeds in or around the
    brain.

Who has strokes?

  • Adults over the age of 40 are most likely to have strokes. Younger adults and kids can also have them.
  • About the same number of men and women have strokes.
  • People of all races are at risk for stroke. African Americans are almost twice as likely to die from a stroke as whites. African Americans often have more damage.
  • People with heart disease may have a bigger risk of stroke. Certain kinds of heart disease can cause blood clots.

How can you lower your risk of stroke?

  • Control your blood pressure — Having high blood pressure adds to the chances of having a stroke. One out of three people with high blood pressure does not know it. Get your blood pressure checked often.
  • Control your diabetes — Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the brain and increase the chance of having a stroke. Follow your doctor’s advice to control your diabetes.
  • Stop smoking—Smoking can cause blood clots. It can also make blood pressure higher. Ask your doctor, pharmacist or nurse about ways to quit.
  • Exercise daily—Exercise makes the heart stronger and blood flow better. It can also help you control your weight. Being heavy increases the chance of diseases.

Don’t ignore the signs of a stroke. Even if you feel better in a few minutes or hours, you may have had a “mini-stroke.” Mini-strokes may put you at risk for a full-blown stroke later. Call 911 if you have any of these warning signs (or have someone else call right away):

  • Your face feels numb.
  • Your arm or leg gets weak or numb.
  • You lose part or all of your sight in one or both eyes.
  • You have a hard time talking and/or understanding other people.
  • You get a very bad headache for no reason.
  • You get dizzy or fall all of a sudden.

FDA has approved a few drugs to prevent and treat stroke. Ask your doctor for more information.

To learn more....

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Information Office
Phone: 301-496-5751
www.ninds.nih.gov

National High Blood Pressure Education Program
c/o National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Information Center
Phone: 301-592-8573

FDA Office of Women's Health
www.fda.gov/womens