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Each year in the United States, there are more than 700,000
strokes. Nearly three-quarters of all strokes occur in
people over the age of 65 and the risk of having a stroke
more than doubles each decade after the age of 55. To help
older adults learn more about the signs and symptoms of
stroke and the need to act quickly, the National Institutes
of Health is adding four new topics on stroke to its
NIHSeniorHealth web site: Act Quickly, Warnings Signs and
Risk Factors, What Happens during a Stroke, and Treatments
and Research. The site features easy-to-read stroke
information, developed by the National Institute of
Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), and may be found
at www.nihseniorhealth.gov A stroke occurs when normal blood
flow to the brain is disrupted. Brain cells die when
deprived of oxygen and nutrients provided by blood. Because
stroke injures the brain, the person having a stroke may not
realize what is happening. But to a bystander the SIGNS OF A
STROKE are distinct: -- Sudden numbness or weakness of the
face, arm or leg (especially on one side of the body) --
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech
-- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes -- Sudden
trouble walking, dizziness or loss of balance or
coordination -- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
In treating a stroke, every minute counts. New treatments
are available that greatly reduce the damage caused by a
stroke, but must be delivered quickly after symptoms begin.
Knowing the stroke symptoms, calling 911 immediately, and
getting to a hospital are critical to preventing long-term
disability.
Risk factors for stroke include family history, high
blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity,
advancing age, and being overweight.
The NINDS is the nation's primary supporter of biomedical
research on the brain and nervous system. It is dedicated to
research and education on the causes, treatment, and
prevention of stroke. End of NIHPRESS Digest - 22 Aug 2005
to 23 Aug 2005 (#2005-116) U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH August 23, 2005
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