Stroke strikes fast. You should too. Call 9-1-1.

Research Spotlight

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The NINDS conducts stroke research and clinical trials at its laboratories and clinics at the NIH, and through grants to major medical institutions across the country.

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TEST YOUR STROKE KNOWLEDGE!

  1. Women are more likely to die from breast cancer than stroke.

      
    False.
    Nearly twice as many women in the United States die of heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases as from all forms of cancer, including breast cancer. More...


  2. Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in adults.

      
    True.


  3. A stroke can occur in your brain or in your heart.

      
    False.
    A stroke occurs in the brain and is often called a "brain attack" to emphasize the necessity for urgent action. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted - this can lead to brain cell death from lack of oxygen.


  4. Which of the following are signs of stroke?
    (Select all that are signs of stroke)
    1. Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech
    2. Sudden, severe headache with no known cause
    3. Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
    4. Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
    5. Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
    All of these are symptoms of stroke.
    If you see or have any of these symptoms call 9-1-1 immediately.


  5. Stroke symptoms that last only a short time and then disappear (also called transient ischemic attack or TIA) are:
    1. Nothing to worry about unless they reoccur.
    2. An indication that you could have a major stroke. You should be medically evaluated immediately.
    b. An indication that you could have a major stroke.
    If you have any signs of stroke, even though they last momentarily, seek immediate medical attention.


  6. If you believe someone is having a stroke what should you do?
    1. Drive them immediately to their doctor's office.
    2. Drive them immediately to the nearest emergency room.
    3. Call 9-1-1 immediately.
    c. Call 9-1-1 immediately.
    Stroke is a medical emergency. Every minute counts when someone is having a stroke. Immediate treatment can save people's lives and enhance their chances for successful recovery. Research shows the fastest way to get treatment is to call 9-1-1.


  7. Which of the following are risk factors for stroke?
    1. High blood pressure
    2. Heart disease
    3. Smoking
    4. High cholesterol
    5. Diabetes
    All of these are risk factors for stroke.
    If you smoke - quit. If you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes or high cholesterol, getting them under control - and keeping them under control - will greatly reduce your chances of having a stroke.


To learn more about stroke and to order stroke materials please call
1-800-352-9424 or visit http://stroke.nih.gov.