Sparks Health System Stroke Information
What is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to
the brain is either blocked by a blood clot or the vessel burst causing
a bleed in the brain. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get
the blood (and oxygen) it needs, so it starts to die.
Stroke is the #3 killer in the United States. It’s also a leading cause
of serious long-term disability, and many stroke survivors are left with
mental and physical disabilities.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for stroke include: high blood pressure, atrial
fibrillation, high blood cholesterol levels, diabetes, cigarette
smoking, heavy alcohol consumption and drug use, lack of physical
activity, obesity and unhealthy diet.
Signs of Stroke
Time lost to stroke is brain lost. If you notice one or more of these symptoms, get medical attention -
FAST!
Face: Does the face look uneven? Ask them to smile.
Arms: Does one arm drift down? Ask them to raise both arms.
Speech: Does their speech sound strange? Ask them to repeat a phrase. Can they do it? Is it slurred?
Time: To get help! Call 9-1-1- at any sign of stroke and go to the nearest hospital.
STROKE PREVENTION
- •Control high blood pressure
- •Control diabetes
- •Control high blood cholesterol
- •Treat atrial fibrillation
- • Stop smoking
- • Limit alcohol consumption
- •Maintain a healthy weight
- •Exercise