What is a stroke?

A stroke happens when a blood vessel that carries oxygen to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts (ruptures). This interruption prevents part of the brain from getting the oxygen and nutrients it needs, which causes brain cells to die.

Without timely treatment, this can cause permanent brain damage, disability, or even death.

What are the most common types of strokes?

Ischemic Stroke: A clot blocks blood flow to the brain, causing damage to brain cells.
Hemorrhagic Stroke: A blood vessel in the brain bursts, disrupting blood flow and causing bleeding.

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Stroke in Different Areas of the Brain

Left Brain:
- Affects the right side – weakness/paralysis, sensory changes, speech/language difficulties, memory issues, slow/cautious behavior.

Right Brain:
- Affects the left side – weakness/paralysis, sensory changes, vision and spatial issues, quick/inquisitive behavior.

Brain Stem:
- Affects both sides – can cause severe effects like locked-in syndrome, where only eye movement is possible.

Risk Factors

"Up to 80% of strokes are preventable through lifestyle changes and proper management of risk factors."— American Stroke Association

Several factors increase the likelihood of having a stroke, some of which can be controlled, and others that cannot:

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Heart Disease
Smoking
Diabetes
Obesity
Family History
Age
Gender

Preventing Stroke: Steps You Can Take

Prioritizing your health will help you feel stronger and healthier, both physically and mentally, while also reducing your risk of stroke.

Manage Blood Pressure
Manage Diabetes
Exercise Consistently
Sauna Treatment
Red Light Therapy
Get Regular Check ups
Limit Drinking
Quit Smoking

Stroke Warning Signs

Recognize the warning signs and call 911 right away. Quick action can be the difference between a full recovery, long-term disability, or even death.

B.E. F.A.S.T.

Balance
loss

Arm
weakness

Face drooping

Eyesight
changes

Speech difficulty

Time to
call 911