Stroke

A stroke is a "brain attack" that cuts off vital blood flow and oxygen to the brain. It is the third leading cause of death (behind cancer and heart disease) and the leading cause of adult disability in the United States. There are two distinct types of strokes: hemorrhagic and ischemic. Hemorrhagic strokes are usually caused by a burst or leaking vessel in the brain. Ischemic strokes are usually caused by a blockage or clot in a vessel in the brain.

In 2007, 668 people ages 41-86 came to CMH with suspected stroke symptoms. Of that number, 159 were admitted and 94 were transferred for tertiary or specialized care. The others were referred for follow-up care.

Stroke symptoms include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg TH 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.

Remember to "Act F.A.S.T."

Face                                           Arms                                          Speech                                        Time

Does one side of the face droop? Is one are weak or numb? (ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?) Is speech slurred? (Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Is the sentence repeated correctly?) If the person shows any of these symptoms, Call 911 or get to the hospital immediately.

If the person shows any of these symptoms, Call 911 or get to the hospital immediately
STROKE is an Emergency, Every minute Counts.

The American Stroke Association is solely focused on reducing disability and death from stroke. Please take advantage of this resource and visit their website for further detailed stroke information and education resources.