Heart graphic

Stroke

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel going to the brain is disrupted either by a blood clot or a ruptured vessel. This process is similar to that which occurs in a heart attack. Deprived of oxygen, the nerve cells in the affected area of the brain cannot function and often die. The parts of the body controlled by those cells are then unable to function.

Major Risk Factors for Stroke:

  • High blood
    pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Cigarette
    smoking
  • High blood
    cholesterol
  • Physical
    inactivity
  • Overweight/
    obesity

Warning Signs of Stroke:

  • Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body   
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding   
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes   
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination   
  • Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

Stroke is an emergency!
Call 9-1-1 immediately if you or someone you are with is having a stroke!

For more information about stroke, download our 2012 Minnesota Stroke Fact Sheet (PDF: 155 KB/2 pages)

Updated Thursday, 11-Apr-2013 11:15:51 CDT