So What Exactly Is a Stroke and What Can I Do?

Objectives

Highlight some important facts regarding stroke and its causes. Highlight important signs and symptoms of an acute stroke. Give you information to prevent a stroke.

What is a Stroke

A stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, occurs when a clot blocks the blood supply to the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. 2 types

Ischemic strokes (Most common > 90%) Hemorrhagic strokes or bleeding into the brain (small % of strokes)

Ischemic

Hemorrhagic

What is a TIA ?

A Transient Ischemic Attack is Stroke symptoms that resolve within 24 hours. Also know as a Mini Stroke or Warning Stroke Risk of having a full blown stroke is higher after having a TIA, particularly the first two weeks.

What Causes a Stroke

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and Alabama. Plaque may break loose and travel to the brain causing a blockage. Material blocking brain arteries usually comes from outside the brain.

Stroke Warning Signs

Sudden weakness or numbness 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

Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

What do I do if I suspect someone is having a stroke

Think FAST:

Why Think FAST

The priority is to save tissue at risk from more damage. There is a 3 hour time limit for the medication t-PA, and the sooner its given the better! Future strokes may be prevented if we identify the cause of stroke ASAP Neurological deterioration and other complications may be prevented if a patient is hospitalized earlier

Stroke is not just a brain disease and often the brain is just an innocent bystander

Life After a Stroke

If you have had a stroke, you can make great progress in regaining your independence. However, you may still suffer from any of the following:

Paralysis on one side of your body. Weakness on one side of your body. Problems with thinking, awareness, attention, learning, judgment, and memory. Problems understanding or forming speech. Difficulty controlling or expressing emotions. Numbness or strange sensations. Pain in the hands and feet that worsens with movement and temperature changes. Depression.

Before being discharged from the hospital, Case Management Nurses can help you find quality care services and family caregiver support to continue your long-term recovery.

Preventing a stroke is much easier and safer than the treatment and the possible effects on your and your familys life.

Questions or Comments