Strokes are extremely deadly, as they are the third leading cause of death in the United States. If it doesn’t cause death, it commonly causes disabilities. Although extremely dangerous, many people cannot recognize the symptoms of a stroke.

Definition of a Stroke

A stroke happens when there is a blockage in the flow of blood to the brain. Oxygen and essential nutrients cannot reach their destination, so brain cells are killed. The two types of stroke are:

• Ischemic - This is caused by blockage in an artery or vessel in the brain. It is the more common stroke type.

• Hemorrhagic - This occurs in about 1/5th of stroke victims. It is caused by a busted blood vessel.

Strokes cause many serious emotional and mental problems, in addition to paralysis and other physical deficiencies. Pain and speech issues may also be problems. Prompt medical attention is crucial, as an untreated stroke can lead to death in a very short time.

Warnings

Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke can help to save the life of you or someone else. If you notice these signs in yourself or another person, find help immediately:

• Numbness in the body - Many stroke victims become numb in the legs, arm, or face, and this generally only happens on one side of the body, but it can happen on the right and left simultaneously.

• Disorientation or not being aware of location or surroundings

• Sudden vision loss

• Feeling lightheaded and stumbling around without having a sense of balance

The majority of the above stroke signals will happen without warning. Stiffness, nausea, and seizures may come along with the signs. As time passes, the conditions will worsen, but it may seem as though certain symptoms disappear.

Time is Crucial

When a stroke is happening, the victim is fighting a battle against the clock in addition to the actual stroke. Immediate medical help increases the likelihood of a more complete recovery. A doctor should be seen within one hour of the stroke occurring.

For Ischemic strokes, medicine designed to break the blood clots are often given, but it must be given in the time frame of three hours from the beginning of the stroke. There is more required for treating a hemorrhagic stroke, and prompt medical attention is required, as with all strokes. Quick treatment lowers the risk of significant damage and improves the chances of survival and recovery.

Risk Factors

Though some risk factors are genetic, certain activities can raise the risk. These include:

• Use of tobacco products
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High levels of cholesterol
• Heart issues

Stopping bad habits and dealing with other health problems will lower the risk of stroke. Recognizing warning signs and getting immediate medical help is extremely important for stroke survival.