Overview Stroke is also called 'Cerebrovascular Accident' It is an acute neurological injury It may be due to blood clot (ischemic) or bleeding (hemorrhagic) Leads to stoppage of blood supply to a part of brain Oxygen supply is decreased This initiates 'ischemic cascade'-causes brain cell death/damage This results in a cerebral stroke Causes/Risks High Blood Pressure Diabetes Cigarette smoking Heart Disease Symptoms Numbness/weakness of an arm/leg/face/one side of body Sudden confusion in speaking/understanding speech Impaired vision in one or both eyes Sudden headache Loss of balance/co-ordination Dizziness Treatment If you suspect stroke, call emergency medical help Reassure the patient Lay the patient down with head and shoulders slightly elevated If patient is not breathing well do a CPR Place the patient on the left side if breathing/not responsive Keep the chin slightly extended Steps To Avoid Never give a suspected stroke victim anything to eat/drink Do not permit the victim to move Prevention Do regular checkups for BP Eat food with less salt Exercise regularly Eat a balanced, healthy diet Take the BP pills regularly
