HealthCentral.com

Stroke



Brain
Brain
Carotid stenosis, X-ray of the left artery
Carotid stenosis, X-ray of the left artery
Carotid stenosis, X-ray of the right artery
Carotid stenosis, X-ray of the right artery
Stroke
Stroke
Brainstem function
Brainstem function
Cerebellum - function
Cerebellum - function
Circle of Willis
Circle of Willis
Left cerebral hemisphere - function
Left cerebral hemisphere - function
Right cerebral hemisphere - function
Right cerebral hemisphere - function
Endarterectomy
Endarterectomy
Plaque buildup in arteries
Plaque buildup in arteries


Stroke

Alternative Names:

Cerebrovascular disease; CVA; Cerebral infarction; Cerebral hemorrhage


Prevention:


To help prevent a stroke:

  • Get screened for high blood pressure at least every two years, especially if you have a family history of high blood pressure.
  • Have your cholesterol checked.
  • Treat high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease if present.
  • Follow a low-fat diet.
  • Quit smoking.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Lose weight if you are overweight.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol use (no more than 1 to 2 drinks per day).

If you have had a TIA or stroke in the past, or you currently have a heart arrhythmia (like atrial fibrillation), mechanical heart valve, congestive heart failure, or risk factors for stroke, your doctor may have you take aspirin or other blood thinners. Make sure you follow your doctor's instructions and take the medication.

To prevent bleeding strokes, take steps to avoid falls and injuries.


References:

American Heart Association. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics --2005 Update. Dallas, Texas: American Heart Association; 2005.

Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, eds. Rosen?s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 5th Ed. St. Louis, MO: Mosby; 2002.

Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Textbook of Medicine, 22nd Ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders; 2004.





Symptoms Checker