What is a stroke?

A stroke is a "brain attack" that happens when a part of the brain experiences a problem with blood flow. This disruption in blood flow cuts off the supply of oxygen to the cells in that part of the brain, and these cells begin to die. Damage to the brain can cause loss of speech, vision, or movement in an arm or a leg, depending on the part of the brain that is affected. Stroke is the major form of cerebrovascular disease, or CVD, a term that sometimes is used interchangeably with stroke.

Am I at risk for stroke?

There are steps you can take to help prevent a stroke. Healthy living is very important in stroke prevention. Click here to take a general risk assessment.

Can a stroke just happen out of the blue?

A stroke, which also is referred to as a "brain attack," often does happen without any prior warning. However, the conditions that lead to a stroke have usually been present for many years. Maintaining the healthiest lifestyle possible, therefore, is very important in stroke prevention.

How is stroke diagnosed?

A physician will order a CT scan if stroke is suspected. The results of the CT scan, in combination with the patient history and family history, enables the physician to make a diagnosis. CT scans and Neurology consultations are available 24 hours a day at St. Joseph Health Center.