Stroke

A stroke is a brain injury

A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked or reduced. This may occur due to several factors, such as:

• A burst blood vessel in the brain
• A blood clot that blocks blood flow to part of the brain
• Aneurysms (a bulge in a blood vessel that can leak or rupture)
• Arteriovenous malformations or AVMs (an abnormal connection between arteries and veins, which can leak or rupture)

Medical professionals may use the term “cerebrovascular accident” or CVA when referring to a stroke.

Types of stroke include:

Ischemic Stroke: An ischemic stroke happens when blood flow through the artery that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the brain becomes blocked. Blood clots often cause the blockages that lead to ischemic strokes

Hemorrhagic Stroke: A hemorrhagic stroke happens when an artery in the brain leaks blood or ruptures (breaks open). The leaked blood puts too much pressure on brain cells, which damages them. High blood pressure and aneurysms, balloon-like bulges in an artery that can stretch and burst, are examples of conditions that can cause a hemorrhagic stroke.

Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): A TIA is sometimes called a “mini-stroke.” It is different from the major types of stroke because blood flow to the brain is blocked for only a short time, usually no more than 5 minutes. A TIA is often a warning sign that a stroke may occur.

A stroke is a medical emergency

Getting medical care right away is critical and can save a person’s life while reducing the risk of long-term disability. Stroke treatment works best when it is given as soon as possible. Quick care can limit damage to the brain, improve a person’s chances of recovery, and reduce the chance of long-term challenges.

If you or someone else may be having a stroke, it is important to call 911 immediately. Do not drive to the hospital or let someone else drive you. Call 911 for an ambulance so that medical personnel can begin life-saving treatment on the way to the emergency department.

Know the signs of a stroke and BE FAST

Stroke symptoms often happen suddenly. A person may feel numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body. They may feel confused, have trouble speaking, or have difficulty understanding others. Some people have trouble seeing in one or both eyes, or may feel dizzy, have trouble walking, or lose their balance or coordination. A sudden, severe headache with no known cause can also be a sign of stroke. Acting quickly can save a life and reduce brain damage. Some stroke treatments only work if they are given within a few hours after symptoms begin. If a person does not get to the hospital in time, they may not be able to receive these treatments.

You can use the B.E.F.A.S.T. test to check for common signs of stroke.

B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.

E – Eyes: Sudden vision changes, blurring, or loss of vision in one or both eyes.

F – Face: One side of the face droops or is numb, particularly noticeable when smiling.

A – Arm: Weakness or numbness in one arm (or leg), often causing it to drift downward when both are raised.

S – Speech: Slurred speech, difficulty speaking, or inability to understand speech.

T – Time: Time to call 911 immediately if any of these symptoms are present, as prompt treatment is crucial.

Note the time when any symptoms first appear. This information helps medical professionals determine the best treatment.

Treatment and recovery depend on the type of stroke a person experiences.

Stroke care is different for each person and depends on the type and cause of the stroke. Treatment may include medicines to break up blood clots or prevent new ones, procedures or surgery to restore blood flow or stop bleeding, and hospital care to monitor and stabilize the person. Importantly, stroke care does not stop after emergency treatment. It may include hospital care, rehabilitation, and long-term support.

Medical professionals should use a coordinated approach to ensure that you or your loved one receives the right care at each stage of recovery. A coordinated care approach means that all parts of a person’s stroke care work together. This includes emergency treatment, hospital care, rehabilitation, and follow-up visits. Medical professionals share information and work as a team so care is not disconnected or repeated. This helps make sure the person gets the right support at the right time during each stage of recovery, which can improve recovery and long-term health outcomes.

Rehabilitation can help people regain skills and independence.

Rehabilitation can help people improve movement, communication, and daily living skills. This may include physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy. Recovery is different for everyone and may take weeks, months, or longer. While some people will experience disabilities following a stroke, many people who experience a stroke can regain skills and live full and healthy lives.

Preventing another stroke is an important part of care and recovery.

After a stroke, a person has a higher risk of having another one. Working with your or your loved one’s medical professionals can help lower this risk by managing conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, and irregular heartbeat. Treatment may include medications, healthy lifestyle changes, and regular medical care. Learn more about brain health after a brain injury.

Compassionate answers. Real support. Every step of the way.

Contact the National Brain Injury Information Center at 1-800-444-6443 or braininjuryinfo@biausa.org to speak to a specialist about:

• Help with care needs
• Legal and financial resources
• Services in your community