|
|
Stroke; Key Q&A.
- Article from:
-
NWHRC Health Center - Stroke
- Article date:
-
June 15, 2005
|
Copyright informationCOPYRIGHT 2005 National Women's Health Resource Center. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
* What is a stroke?
A stroke or "brain attack" is caused by inadequate blood flow to the brain. It occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel or artery, or when a blood vessel breaks, interrupting blood flow to an area of the brain.
* How can I prevent a stroke?
You can't always prevent a stroke, but many could be prevented by heeding stroke's warning signs and treating its underlying risk factors, including high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, diabetes, high blood cholesterol and heart disease.
* What is most likely to put me at risk?
Hypertension is the most important risk factor for stroke, increasing risk up to six times.
* What's a ...