Stroke

Brain Attack/Stroke Overview

The term "brain attack" sounds serious, and that's exactly how it should sound. This term is often used for what is more commonly called a stroke. This serious medical condition occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted (either from blockage or rupture of blood vessels), and brain tissue dies. Patients experiencing brain attack can be affected in a number of ways, including paralysis, loss of speech, loss of memory - and even death.

Brain attacks - or strokes - are our nation's third leading killer and the leading cause of adult disability. The ailment strikes as many as 700,000 Americans a year, killing over 200,000 and permanently impairing hundreds of thousands more.

The good news is that we can take comfort in a few encouraging facts.

First, the risk of suffering a brain attack, or stroke, can be greatly reduced by following a healthy and sensible lifestyle that also offers protection against other serious medical conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Second, those who are stricken with brain attack are more likely to be restored to their pre-stroke condition with no permanent damage if they receive swift medical attention.

The term "brain attack" is being used today so that people will see that it is an emergency. An immediate recognition of the warning signs and a quick call to 911 for emergency assistance can dramatically improve the chance for a full recovery.

In other words, think of a brain attack, or stroke, in the same way you think of a heart attack. In both situations, immediate action can improve the odds of survival and restoration of your good health. That really is good news!

This site will explain the triggers and warning signs of a brain attack, show you whether or not you're at risk, and let you know about treatment options.

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This article is a NetWellness exclusive. NetWellness Article

Last Reviewed: Oct 10, 2007

Pooja Khatri, MD
Assistant Professor
Department of Neurology
College of Medicine
University of Cincinnati

Joseph P Broderick, MD
Professor and Chairman
Director, Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Stroke Team
Department of Neurology
College of Medicine
University of Cincinnati

Dennis Landis, MD
Professor
Department of Neurology
School of Medicine
Case Western Reserve University