A stroke is a brain injury that occurs when a part of the brain is cut off from its blood supply. The two main types of strokes are ischemic strokes (caused by a blocked artery) and hemorrhagic strokes (caused by a ruptured artery). Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are “warning strokes” that produce symptoms similar to a stroke but cause little to no lasting damage. Both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes are serious brain injuries that may lead to long-term disabilities and even death. In fact, strokes are the number one cause of adult disabilities, the fifth leading cause of death in the United States, and the fourth leading cause of death in Iowa.

Prevention

Thankfully, up to 80% of strokes can be prevented with the right diet and exercise. Eating diets low in fats and salts, participating in ample physical activity, and avoiding cigarettes and alcohol are all ways to keep blood pressure regulated and actively reduce the risk of the occurrence of a stroke. There are, however, some stroke risk factors that cannot be prevented. These include age, gender, race, and heredity. Learn more about stroke risk factors here.

Stroke Symptoms

Using the acronym F.A.S.T can help you identify and seek immediate treatment for a stroke or TIA. If you experience or notice these symptoms, immediately call 911.

• Sudden NUMBNESS or weakness of face, arm, or leg, especially on side of the body
• Sudden CONFUSION, trouble speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden TROUBLE SEEING in one or both eyes
• Sudden TROUBLE WALKING, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden SEVERE HEADACHE with no known cause