What is a Stroke?

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the U.S. and causes more serious long-term disabilities than any other disease. A stroke occurs when the blood flow to the brain is blocked or disrupted. The cells that don’t receive oxygen supplied by blood flow begin to die causing long-term damage that can affect the entire body. There are two types of strokes: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes occur when a blood clot blocks blood flow in a vessel of the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes occur when a blood vessel in the brain breaks allowing bleeding in the brain.

Risk factors for stroke include: age, gender, family history, prior heart attack or “warning strokes”, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, poor diet, physical inactivity and obesity, smoking, other heart disease and sickle cell anemia. About 75% of strokes occur in adults over the age of 65. Males also experience a higher percentage of strokes. However having a stroke is more common and more deadly in African Americans of any age, particularly males.

Warning signs of stroke include: sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body, sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding, sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination and sudden, severe headache with no known cause.

What should the Caregiver do?

When caring for a person who has experienced a stroke it is important to promote a healthy lifestyle: taking medications, exercising, eating well, reducing risk factors like smoking, etc. Your loved one may also need physical and or occupational therapy. Try to encourage as much independence as possible and allow your loved one to make decisions about his/her daily activities and care, if possible.

Caring for someone who has experienced a stroke can be stressful and overwhelming. It is important to take care of yourself and accept help. It may also be helpful to find a support group of peers who can relate and understand your situation.

For more information on Stroke

American Stroke Association

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

National Stroke Association