Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a Stroke?

A stroke, also called a CVA (cerebrovascular accident) or "brain attack," refers to a disruption in blood flow to some part of the brain. Such a disruption may occur either because a blood clot forms and blocks an artery in the brain or because blood vessel or artery hemorrhages in the brain. When a stroke occurs, brain cells in the immediate area are damaged or destroyed. A related problem is known as TIA or transient ischemic attack. A TIA is essentially a "mini stroke" characterized by sudden-onset stroke symptoms which are usually temporary and may not cause long-term damage. TIAs are often precursors to full strokes, however, and should be addressed by a medical professional.

What Are the Effects of a Stroke?

Depending upon the severity of the blood flow disruption and the location of the damage, the effects of strokes can vary. When a stroke occurs in the right side of the brain, the left side of the body is more significantly affected and symptoms may include weakness or paralysis in the arm or leg. Right-side strokes are also likely to produce impairments in spatial and perceptual abilities and may cause deficits in short-term memory as well as poor judgment and impulsive behaviors. A left-side stroke is more likely to cause paralysis or weakness in the right side of the body. These strokes are also likely to cause impairments in short-term memory and may cause disruption in speech and language abilities as well. Left-side strokes appear less likely to produce poor judgment or impulsivity.

Are There Risk Factors for Strokes?

Strokes are the third leading cause of death in the United States and each year 730,000 Americans experience a new or recurrent stroke. Although anyone may experience a stroke, there are certain factors which increase an individual's risk. Some of these factors, such as age, gender and race, are uncontrollable. Statistically, two-thirds of strokes occur in individuals over the age of 65. Males have a higher stroke risk than females and African Americans appear to have a greater risk of stroke than do individuals from other ethnic backgrounds. In addition, people who have a family history of stroke or TIA or who have a personal history of diabetes appear at greater risk for stroke.

How Would I Know If I Was Having A Stroke?

The most common symptoms of stroke include: sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm or leg, particularly on one side of the body; sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding others; sudden trouble seeing out of one or both eyes; sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination; and sudden severe headache with no identifiable cause. Because treatment for a stroke is most effective when started as soon as possible, anyone who experiences any of these symptoms should immediately consult a medical professional.

How Are Strokes Treated?

Initially, the focus is on identifying the location and severity of an individual's stroke and stabilizing her or his medical condition. After that, treatment focuses on rehabilitation, addressing the physical and cognitive limitations caused by a stroke. Neurology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, neuropsychology and other disciplines coordinate treatment to strengthen the body, develop compensatory skills for residual weakness or paralysis and assist the individual in adapting back to her or his environment. The goal of stroke treatment is for the individual to recover as much independence as possible. Some research has indicated that as many as 35% of stroke survivors recover with only minimal long-term impairments.

Can Strokes Be Prevented?

There is no sure way to protect yourself from ever having a stroke. There are some health factors, however, which can be addressed to reduce the risk. High blood pressure, for instance, is correlated with an increased risk of stroke and individuals with hypertension can reduce their stroke risk by seeking treatment for high blood pressure and adhering to the advice of their physicians. People with a history of heart disease and/or high cholesterol can also reduce their stroke risk by complying with treatment prescribed by their physicians.

Some research has also found a correlation between certain behaviors and increased stroke risk. These include smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol and excessive weight. Individuals concerned with lowering their risk for stroke would benefit efforts to change health factors like these. Remember, it is advisable to consult with your physician before attempting to alter lifestyle patterns such as exercise or diet.

Where Can I Get More Information?

There are many resources for additional information about strokes, their prevention, treatment and the supports available for family members and friends of individuals who have experienced strokes. Some of these are listed below. You can also consult with your health care professional for additional referrals or resources in your area.

The National Stroke Association     www.stroke.org
The Stroke Recovery Association     www.strokerecovery.org
The Acute Stroke Toolbox         www.stroke-site.org

Glen E. Heiss, Ph.D. Staff Psychologist Jamaica Hospital Medical Center Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

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