Stroke

A stroke is a brain attack. It happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is cut off. Blood carries essential supplies and oxygen to your brain. Without blood your brain cells can be damaged or die. This damage can have different effects, depending on where it happens in your brain. A stroke can affect the way your body works as well as how you think, feel and communicate. There are different types of stroke, mostly caused by a blockage stopping the supply of blood to the brain, though they can also be caused by bleeding in or around the brain.

What causes a stroke?

As we age our arteries become harder and narrower and more likely to become blocked. However, certain medical conditions and lifestyle factors can speed up this process and increase your risk of having a stroke.

Is it possible to recover from stroke?

All strokes are different. For some people the effects may be relatively minor and may not last long. Others may be left with more serious problems that make them dependent on other people. Unfortunately not everyone survives – around one in eight people die within 30 days of having a stroke. That’s why it’s so important to be able to recognise the symptoms and get medical help as quickly as possible. The quicker someone receives treatment, the better their chances of a good recovery.

A stroke is a medical emergency. If someone shows any signs of having a stroke you need to seek immediate medical attention.