What would you know do if you, or your loved one, was having a stroke? Would you be able to recognize signs? Every second counts as the moment a stroke happens, millions of brain cells start to die and the only way to stop itthis is to get help right away.

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or bursts. Without blood and the oxygen it carries, part of the brain starts to die. The part of the body controlled by the damaged area of the brain can't work properly. Brain damage can begin within minutes, so it is important to know the symptoms of stroke and act fast. Quick treatment can help limit damage to the brain and increase the chance of a full recovery.

Stroke Warning Signs
Strokes happen fast and symptoms include sudden:

• Numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.
• Confusion, trouble speaking or trouble understanding
• Dizziness, loss of balance or coordination or trouble walking
• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Severe headache with no known cause

PATIENT RESOURCES

Videos Learn the warning signs of a stroke

From Our Health Library What is a stroke? Learn about "ischemic" versus "hemorrhagic" strokes Symptoms of stroke What happens during a stroke? Can I prevent a stroke? What increases your risk? Rehabilitation

Online Health Tools How is a stroke treated Should I have endarterectomy (surgery) to remove plaque buildup? Should my loved one go into a skilled nursing facility following a stroke?

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