Stroke

An ischemic stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked or reduced. This prevents brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die in minutes. Another type of stroke is a hemorrhagic stroke. It occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or bursts and causes bleeding in the brain. The blood increases pressure on brain cells and damages them.

A stroke is a medical emergency. It's crucial to get medical treatment right away. Getting emergency medical help quickly can reduce brain damage and other stroke complications.

The good news is that fewer Americans die of stroke now than in the past. Effective treatments also can help prevent disability from stroke.

Symptoms of stroke include:

Trouble speaking and understanding what others are saying: A person having a stroke may be confused, slur words or may not be able to understand speech.
Numbness, weakness or paralysis in the face, arm or leg.: This often affects just one side of the body. The person can try to raise both arms over the head. If one arm begins to fall, it may be a sign of a stroke. Also, one side of the mouth may droop when trying to smile.
Problems seeing in one or both eyes: The person may suddenly have blurred or blackened vision in one or both eyes. Or the person may see double.
Headache: A sudden, severe headache may be a symptom of a stroke. Vomiting, dizziness and a change in consciousness may occur with the headache.
Trouble walking: Someone having a stroke may stumble or lose balance or coordination.

Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a stroke, even if they seem to come and go or they disappear completely. Think "FAST" and do the following:

Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Or is one arm unable to rise?
Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is the person's speech slurred or different from usual?
Time: If you see any of these signs, call 911 or emergency medical help right away.

If you're with someone you suspect is having a stroke, watch the person carefully while waiting for emergency assistance.