Toward a better understanding of strokes

Toward a better understanding of strokes


What is a stroke?

A stroke is a sudden loss of brain function. It is caused by the interruption of flow of blood to the brain (ischemic stroke) or the rupture of blood vessels in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). The interruption of blood flow or the rupture of blood vessels causes brain cells (neurons) in the affected area to die. The effects of a stroke depend on where the brain was injured, as well as how much damage occurred. A stroke can impact any number of areas including your ability to move, see, remember, speak, reason and read and write.

A few statistics on strokes

  • Every 10 minutes, a stroke occurs in Canada.
  • Every year, approximately 50,000 Canadians die or are left severely disabled by a stroke.
  • Only 20 to 25 percent of people who experience a stroke receive emergency care and treatment within 3 hours of the onset of symptoms. This three-hour window corresponds to the period during which clot-dissolving drugs are most effective.

Stroke warning signs

A stroke can be treated. That’s why recognizing its warning signs is vital:
  • Weakness - Sudden loss of strength or sudden numbness in the face, arm or leg, even if temporary.
  • Trouble speaking - Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding or sudden confusion, even if temporary.
  • Vision problems - Sudden trouble with vision, even if temporary.
  • Headache - Sudden severe and unusual headache.
  • Dizziness - Sudden loss of balance, especially with any of the above signs.
If you experience any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately!

Stroke risk factors:

  • Age: For every decade over the age of 55, your risk for stroke doubles
  • Gender: Men are more likely to have a stroke, but women tend to die more often from it
  • Family history
  • Ethnicity
  • History of stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack)

Other risk factors you can control:

Pharmacy services

For more information, talk to your pharmacist!

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