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A stroke is a sudden loss of brain function. It is caused by the interruption of flow of blood to the brain (ischemic stroke) or the rupture of blood vessels in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). The interruption of blood flow or the rupture of blood vessels causes brain cells (neurons) in the affected area to die. The effects of a stroke depend on where the brain was injured, as well as how much damage occurred. A stroke can impact any number of areas including your ability to move, see, remember, speak, reason and read and write.

In a small number of cases, stroke-like damage to the brain can occur when the heart stops (cardiac arrest). The longer the brain goes without the oxygen and nutrients supplied by the blood flow, the greater the risk of permanent brain damage. Brain injuries can also result in uncontrolled bleeding and permanent brain damage. This is usually referred to as an Acquired Brain Injury.

Stroke is a medical emergency. Recognizing and responding immediately to the warning signs of stroke by calling 9-1-1 or your local emergency number can significantly improve survival and recovery. If a person arrives at a hospital emergency immediately after experiencing any or all of the stroke warning signs, and if the patient is diagnosed with a stroke caused by a blood clot, then doctors can administer a clot-busting drug called TPA - but only within three hours of initial symptoms.

Thrombolytic drugs like TPA can effectively improve the outcome of a stroke by potentially minimizing the physical and mental damage. Yet only 20% to 25% of those who have a stroke actually get emergency care and treatment within three hours of the onset of symptoms the critical time frame during which clot-busting drugs are most effective.

Stroke can be treated. That's why it is so important to recognize and respond to the warning signs.

	Weakness - Sudden loss of strength or sudden numbness in the face, arm or leg, even if temporary.
	Trouble speaking - Sudden difficulty speaking or understanding or sudden confusion, even if temporary.
	Vision problems - Sudden trouble with vision, even if temporary.
	Headache - Sudden severe and unusual headache.
	Dizziness - Sudden loss of balance, especially with any of the above signs.
If you experience any of these symptoms, CALL 9-1-1 or your local emergency number immediately.

http://strokealberta.com/