Do You Know the Five Main Warning Signs of a Stroke?

What is a stroke?

A stroke occurs when a blood clot travels to the brain, interrupting the supply of blood and the oxygen it carries to the nerve cells in that area. As a result, cells may die and the parts of the body they control stop functioning. A rupture and bleeding from a vessel that supplies the blood to the brain may also cause a stroke.

Who is Most Likely to Have a Stroke?

A stroke can occur at any age but is more common in older adults. Risk of having a stroke increases a great deal if you have high blood pressure (hypertension); hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), heart disease or diabetes. Smoking and a family history of stroke. Anyone with these conditions should see their doctor regularly and followtheir recommended treatment very carefully.

Over the past 30 years, deaths from stroke have dropped by 50%. In the last year alone, important new treatments to prevent stroke have become available. Anyone who experiences the warning signs of a stroke must go to the hospital immediately to receive the full benefit form these new treatments.

How Can I Help Prevent a Stroke?

• Have your blood pressure checked regularly
• Don't smoke
• Learn the warning signs of a stroke and get emergency medical attention immediately if they occur.
• Follow a healthy lifestyle:
  • eat a high fibre, low fat diet
  • maintain a healthy weight
  • keep physically active
  • take time to relax
  • avoid tobacco smoke

They Could Save Your Life!

The five warning signs of a stroke:

1. Sudden weakness, numbness and/or tingling of the face, arm or leg. These signals may only be brief.

2. Temporary loss of speech or trouble understanding speech.

3. Sudden loss of vision, particularly in one eye, or double vision.

4. Sudden, severe, and unusual headaches.

5. Unsteadiness or sudden falls, especially with any of the above signs.

If you or anyone else you know ever experience any of these problems, get medical attention immediately. Your quick action could help avoid a stroke!

For more information about heart disease and stroke, contact the Heart and Stroke Foundation. They can provide you with information and/or programs on:

• CPR
• High Blood Pressure
• Nutrition
• Active Living
• Rehabilitation
• Smoking
• Stress

Reproduced from a Heart Smart Brochure © The Heart and Stroke Foundation
Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario

Some other pertinent links:

http://www.strokecenter.org/

http://www.ahaf.org/hrtstrok/about/hsabout.htm

http://www.americanheart.org/Heart_and_Stroke_A_Z_Guide/aha.html