What is stroke? What causes strokes?

It is a focal cerebral involvement not whooping 24 hours of evolution with visible lesion by CT or MRI brain (WHO definition). Represents the third leading cause of mortality in developed countries. The incidence is approximately 200 cases/ 100 '000 inhabitants/year, and is increased from 55 years of age. It is especially serious in women.

Strokes occur due to problems with the blood supply to the brain; either the blood supply is blocked or a blood vessel within the brain ruptures. A stroke is a medical emergency, and treatment must be sought as quickly as possible.

There are three main kinds of stroke; ischemic strokes, hemorrhagic strokes and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), also referred to as mini-strokes.

Symptons

If you have symptoms of a stroke, call or other emergency services right away. General symptoms of a stroke include:

• Sudden numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of movement in your face, arm, or leg, especially on only one side of your body.
• Sudden vision changes.
• Sudden trouble speaking.
• Sudden confusion or trouble understanding simple statements.
• Sudden problems with walking or balance.
• A sudden, severe headache that is different from past headaches.

What causes stroke?

The different forms of stroke have different specific causes.

Ischemic strokes

Ischemic strokes are the most common form of stroke, with around 85% of strokes being of this type. They are caused by the arteries that connect to the brain becoming blocked or narrowed, resulting in ischemia - severely reduced blood flow.

Hemorrhagic strokes

Hemorrhagic strokes are caused by arteries in the brain either leaking blood or bursting open. The hemorrhaged blood puts pressure on brain cells and damages them. Blood vessels can burst or spill blood in the middle of the brain or near the surface of the brain, sending blood into the space between the brain and the skull.

Transient ischemic attack (TIA)

TIAs are different from the aforementioned kinds of stroke because the flow of blood to the brain is only disrupted temporarily for a short time. They are similar to ischemic strokes in that they are often caused by blood clots or other debris.

We both adolescents as seniors we must care for our health to be able to prevent a stroke.

If you would like to obtain more information follow these link: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/7624.php