How much do you know about strokes?

Stroke is the third-leading cause of death for Americans. But surprisingly, the public's knowledge concerning strokes is extremely limited. Education information can help you better understand what a stroke is, how to identify the warning signs of stroke, and how to lower your risk of having one.

First, understand what a stroke is.

A stroke, sometimes referred to as a cerebral vascular accident (CVA), is an interruption in the flow of blood to cells in the brain; deprived of oxygen from the blood, the cells die. A stroke occurs when (1) a blockage of an artery prevents blood from reaching cells in the brain, or (2) an artery ruptures inside or outside the brain, causing hemorrhage. Stroke is also referred to as a "brain attack."

When a stroke occurs, every second is critical. Immediate medical treatment can lower disability substantially.

There are two types of strokes:

Ischemic Strokes
Are caused by build-ups of fatty deposits on the inside of an artery wall which then becomes completely clogged. Ischemic strokes are the more common, accounting for eighty percent of all strokes suffered.

Hemorrhagic Strokes
Occur through the rupture of either an artery inside the brain or an aneurysm (a blood-filled bulge in the artery wall) at the base of the brain. Twenty percent of all strokes suffered are hemorrhagic strokes.

Washington, DC has one of the highest stroke death rates in the country, making rapid-response stroke services essential.

Second, be sure you know the warning signs of stroke.

• Numbness, weakness, or paralysis in face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.
   
• Sudden blurred or decreased vision in one or both eyes.
   
• Difficulty speaking or understanding simple statements.
   
• Loss of balance or coordination when combined with another sign.

Third, learn how to reduce your risk of stroke.

• Control your blood pressure.
   
• Find out if you have heart disease - especially an irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation (AF).
   
• Find out if you have carotid artery disease.
   
• Find out if you have diabetes.
   
• Don't smoke.
   
• Lower your cholesterol.
   
• Limit your alcohol use.
   
• Control your weight.

And finally, if a stroke does occur, seek immediate medical treatment!

Strokes kill. Strokes disable. A stroke should be viewed as a medical emergency, every bit as urgent as a heart attack. If you experience any signs of a stroke, call 911 immediately.