Brain Attack

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in America and a leading cause of adult disability.
Up to 80% of strokes are preventable.

A stroke or "brain attack" occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery (a blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the body) or a blood vessel (a tube through which the blood moves through the body) breaks, interrupting blood flow to an area of the brain. When either of these things happen, brain cells begin to die and brain damage occurs.

Stroke Symptoms include:
SUDDEN numbness or weakness of 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.

Anyone can have a stroke. But your chances for having a stroke increase if you meet certain criteria. Some of these criteria, called risk factors, are beyond your control -- such as being over age 55, being male, being African American, Hispanic or Asian/Pacific Islander, or having a family history of stroke. Other factors which are controllable include: smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, alcohol, alcohol use and diabetes.

Knowing your risk factors and taking responsibility for those you can control is important. I know I have a genetic risk factor because my father died of a stroke in his sleep at the age of 46. He was a smoker and had high blood pressure which he was noncompliant with taking his medications. Probably because it messed with his libido like a lot of men do but guess what you cant use it if you become paralyzed from a stroke!

For more information on strokes visit the National Stroke Association

All comments are greatly appreciated!!!!!!!!!