Definitions of a Stroke
Stroke is defined as being a neurological impairment caused by a disruption in blood supply to a region of the brain.  There are two types of strokes.

Ischemic Stoke - Occurs because a blood vessel supplying the brain with blood and oxygen is blocked.

Hemorrhagic Stroke - Occurs when an artery in the brain ruptures.

Definition of Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA's)
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) - TIA's have signs and symptoms of a stroke but usually go away in a few minutes to a few hours.  TIA's are neurological dysfunction in the brain, and are a significant indicator of a person at risk for a stroke.  TIA's are also known as "Mini Strokes".

Some strokes strike without warning, but most victims have prior risk factors that may lead up to a stroke.  The best way to prevent a stroke is to identify at-risk patients.  Once they are identified, try to control as many risk factors as possible.

Risk Factors
Identifying people that are at risk for strokes and eliminating or controlling as many risk factors as possible is the best way to prevent strokes.  Most stroke victims have one or more of five risk factors.

(1)  High Blood Pressure
(2)  Elevated Blood Cholesterol Levels
(3)  High Blood Sugar
(4) Cigarette Smoking
(5) Heart Disease

People with any of these risk factors must be educated to recognize the signs and symptoms of stroke and should see their physician regularly.

Signs and Symptoms of TIA's and Strokes
Paralysis - Weakness, clumsiness, or heaviness, in the hand, arm, leg or face.  These can happen alone or in a combination with each other.  The involved body parts are opposite the side of the stroke.

Numbness - Sensory loss, tingling, or abnormal sensation, can involve the hand, arm, leg or face.

Language Disturbance - Slurred or indistinct speech, abnormal pronunciation of words, trouble selecting correct words, trouble reading or writing.

Visual Disturbances - Blurred vision to one or both eyes.  Double vision or a sense of bouncing or moving objects.

Vertigo - Sense of spinning or whirling, continuing at rest.

Many stroke victims deny the presence of stroke symptoms and most delay access to care for several hours after the onset of symptoms.  This time delay can sometimes be the difference between life and death.

Stroke victims and their families must be taught to activate EMS as soon as they detect stroke signs or symptoms.  Remember, Call First/Call Fast/ Call 9-1-1.  Together, we can help to save lives.