CVA (Stroke)

A Cerebral Vascular Accident or stroke happens when a blood vessel that brings oxygen and nutrients to the brain bursts or is clogged by a blood clot.  Because of this rupture or blockage, part of the brain doesn’t get the flow of blood it needs.  Brain cells die in the area where blood flow is cut off.  When brain cells die,  the abilities which were controlled by that area of the brain are lost.  These might include: speech, movement, and memory.  The specific functions that are lost depend on where in the brain the stroke happened and the size of the stroke. 

Controllable Risk Factors

• High blood pressure (the most important risk factor for a stroke).
• Cigarette smoking.
• Diabetes.
• Carotid artery disease.
• Heart disease.

Uncontrollable Risk Factors

• Increasing age.
• Gender (more women than men have strokes).
• Family history and race.
• History of a prior stroke.

When it comes to stroke, think FAST!

Minutes count when it comes to stroke.  You need to recognize the signs and symptoms of stroke and get help immediately.  You can also teach your clients, friends and family members how to recognize the symptoms of stroke so they can help themselves!  Here’s an easy way to remember the symptoms and act F.A.S.T.

FACE– Facial weakness, numbness, drooping to one side, crooked smile.

ARMS– Weakness, numbness, in arm, usually only on one side.

SPEECH– Slurred or mumbling speech, unable to form words.

TIME– If above symptom(s) are present, it’s TIME to get help, NOW!