Understanding Strokes

Stroke is a "brain attack," cutting off vital supplies of blood and oxygen to the brain cells that control everything you do - from speaking to walking to breathing. A stroke happens when an artery in your brain becomes blocked or ruptures. Most strokes occur when arteries are blocked by blood clots (formed in the heart or elsewhere in the body) or by the gradual buildup of plaque and other fatty deposits. Arteries can rupture when weak spots on the blood vessel break.

Every year, stroke strikes nearly 550,000 Americans, killing 150,000 and forever changing the lives of the 400,000 who survive. Everyone has some stroke risk. The good news is that more than half of all strokes can be prevented by reducing risks, and if you do have a stroke, the brain damage may be minimized if you recognize the symptoms, respond promptly and receive appropriate treatment.

To learn more:

• Reducing Your Risk of Stroke
• Stroke Symptoms
• Stroke Services at Central Baptist Hospital

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