Comprehensive Stroke Center

Prevent / Recognize a Stroke
A stroke or Brain Attack occurs when there is a sudden interruption of blood supply to the brain. When this happens, the part of the brain that does not receive the flow of blood with the oxygen and nutrients it needs starts to die. Stroke is also called a brain attack because of it's sudden onset. Like a heart attack, brain attack requires emergency response and treatment.

Preventable

Brain attack is the most preventable medical catastrophe. The best way to prevent a brain attack is to reduce the risk factors causing them. Stroke risk factors that can be controlled through medical care and lifestyle changes include:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease (particularly irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation)
• Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
• Smoking
• Hypercholesterolemia (blood cholesterol level greater than 200 mg)
• Alcohol Use (more than 2 drinks per day raises blood pressure)
• Being Overweight

Knowing the Warning Signs

• Sudden onset of one-sided weakness
• Numbness or paralysis
• Blurred or decreased vision in one or both eyes
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty speaking or understanding
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Sudden severe or unexplained headache.

If you experience one or more of these signs call 911. The faster you get treatment the greater your chances are for a full recovery.