Overview
Stroke occurs when an artery in your brain becomes blocked or leaking. This causes oxygen deprived brain cells to die within minutes. During a stroke, you suddenly feel numbness and confusion or have trouble walking and seeing. If left untreated, a stroke can lead to long-term disability.
In fact, stroke is the leading cause of disability for a long time. People who receive treatment within 3 hours of having a stroke are less likely to be disabled. A trusted source at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 93 percent of people knew that sudden numbness on one side was a stroke symptom. But only 38 percent knew all the symptoms that would motivate them to seek emergency care.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Risk factors for stroke include:
- high blood pressure
- Family history of stroke
- Smoking, especially when combined with oral contraceptives
- Being African-American
- Being female
Some risk factors for stroke can be reduced with preventive care, medications, and lifestyle changes. In general, good health habits can reduce your risk.
Methods of stroke prevention may include controlling hypertension with medications or surgery. You should also maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular lifestyle, regular exercise and a diet low in sodium. Avoid drink and smoking only in moderation, as these activities rise your risk of stroke.