Stroke

  • A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is suddenly blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts.
  • Stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability in the United States.

Stroke Info (Mayo Clinic)

Signs & Symptoms:

  • Sudden numbness or weakness - especially on one side of the body
  • Confusion
  • Trouble speaking or understanding speech
  • Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Sudden trouble walking
  • Dizziness or loss of balance/coordination
  • Severe headache with no known cause

Risk Factors:

  • Hypertension
  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • Cigarette smoking
  • Heavy alcohol consumption/illicit drug use
  • High cholesterol levels
  • Genetic or congenital conditions
  • High red blood cell count