| Overview of Stroke |
| Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted. The disruption is caused when either a blood clot or piece of plaque blocks one of the vital blood vessels in the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. |
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| Ministrokes Deserve Maximum Attention |
| A ministroke, or transient ischemic attack (TIA), is a brief episode of stroke symptoms caused by temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain. Most people suffer TIAs without realizing it. |
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| Evaluation Procedures for Stroke |
| Tests that may be used to help diagnose a stroke include a CT scan or MRI, and an electroencephalogram. |
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| Stroke Recovery Begins with Rehabilitation |
| A stroke can cause problems with speech, vision, memory, balance or coordination. It can leave part of the body weakened or paralyzed, among other physical problems. |
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| Treatment for Stroke |
| Although there is no cure for stroke, advanced medical and surgical treatments are now available, giving many stroke victims hope for optimal recovery. |
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| Signs and Symptoms of Stroke |
| If you notice any of these symptoms, call 911 or your local emergency medical service immediately. Treatment for stroke is most effective when started as soon as possible. |
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| Rehabilitation for Stroke |
| Stroke rehabilitation works best when the patient, family, and rehabilitation staff works together as a team. Family members must learn about impairments and disabilities caused by the stroke and how to help the patient achieve optimal function again. |
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| Types of Stroke |
| Strokes are classified as either ischemic or hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes are caused by blockage of an artery. Hemorrhagic strokes are caused by bleeding in the brain. |
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| Risk Factors for Stroke |
| The most important controllable risk factor for stroke is controlling high blood pressure. Blood pressure of 140/90 or higher can damage the arteries that supply blood to the brain. |
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| Effects of Stroke (Brain Attack) |
| When an area of the brain is damaged, which typically occurs with a stroke, an impairment may result. An impairment is the loss of normal function of part of the body. Sometimes, an impairment may result in a disability, or inability to perform an activity in a normal way. |
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