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A stroke occurs when the
blood supply to the part of the brain is suddenly interrupted (ischemic)
or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, spilling blood into the spaces
surrounding the brain cells (hemorrhagic). The symptoms of stroke are easy
to spot: sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;
sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech; sudden
trouble seeing in one or both eyes; sudden trouble walking; dizziness; or
loss of balance or coordination. Brain cells die when they no longer
receive oxygen and nutrients from the blood or when they are damaged by
sudden bleeding into or around the brain. These damaged cells can linger
in a compromised state for several hours. With timely treatment, these
cells can be saved. Stroke is diagnosed through several techniques: a
short neurological examination, blood tests, CT scans, MRI scans, Doppler
ultrasound, and arteriography. Stroke seems to run in some families.
Family members may have a genetic tendency for stroke or share a lifestyle
that contributes to stroke. The most important risk factors for stroke are
hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and cigarette smoking.
(Definition from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and
Stroke)
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