STROKE

Definition of a Stroke:

Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA) involves interruption of the flow of blood to the brain, due to blockage or hemorrhage of the blood vessels. Cells begin to die with in 4 minutes.

Types Of Strokes

1.Hemorrhagic: Artery in the brain begins to bleed due to weakened area of the blood vessel, such as an aneurysm.

2.Ischemic: A blood clot occludes the artery and blood flow ceases causing cell death.

The severity of the stroke is determined by the area of the brain affected and the extent of damage. A stroke on the left side of the brain affects the right side of the body. Alternately, a stroke on the right side of the brain affects the left side of the body.


Symptoms:

•Tingling and weakness of the face or extremities
•Visual impairment
•distorted speech
•Confusion
•Unsteady gait, dizzy
•Complaints of headache


Other Signs Include:

•Unable to communicate and appears confused
•Paralysis of an extremity on either side of the body