A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Strokes can cause lasting brain damage, disability, or death. Symptoms Weakness or paralysis, usually on one side of the body Difficulty speaking or using words Swallowing problems Pain or numbness Vision problems, such as blurred vision, double vision, or trouble seeing in one or both eyes Dizziness or loss of balance or coordination Severe headache with an unknown cause Seizures Nausea or vomiting Types of stroke Ischemic stroke: A blockage in a blood vessel in the brain Hemorrhagic stroke: Bleeding in the brain, usually caused by a burst blood vessel Risk factors Being over 50 years old Having sickle cell disease Having an unhealthy lifestyle Having migraines Taking the combined contraceptive pill Being pregnant and having pre-eclampsia Having just had a baby Treatment Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a stroke.

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Posted March 4, 2025