What is Stroke?

Approximately 750,000 Americans
have a new or recurrent stroke each year

Stroke is our nation's third leading cause of death, killing nearly 160,000 Americans every year and it is the largest single cause of neurologic crippling in our nation. The statistics related to stroke are indeed staggering and the concern of having a stroke is among the most feared health problems by elderly Americans. But what is a stroke? What causes a stroke? What are the symptoms of a stroke? These questions and more information can be found on the website reference listed below. However, simply put, a stroke is a brain attack. Similar in process to when a heart attack occurs, blood flow to the heart, or to the brain in the case of a stroke, is cut off. This results in damage to parts of the brain.

Learn the 3 R's of stroke: Reduce your risk, Recognize the symptoms, and Respond by calling 911.

For more information about stroke, call the National Stroke Association at 1-800-STROKES (1-800-787-6537).

By clicking here, you will be connected with the National Stroke Association website location entitled "What is a Stroke/Brain Attack?" Remember that you can print any of the information you see for later reference if you like.