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Stroke is an injury to the brain that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted. When this happens, the brain cells in that area may be damaged or die because they do not get enough oxygen and nutrients. Unlike other cells in the body, brain cells do not replace themselves. Since the brain controls almost everything that the body does, bodily functions controlled by the damaged part of the brain can be affected. Changes may be physical, such as being unable to speak or having difficulty with movement of the arms or legs. Changes in behavior or mood may also reflect brain injury. There are two major types of strokes: make up almost 80% of all strokes and are caused by a blockage of a blood vessel in the brain or neck. Hemorrhagic stroke is caused by the rupture of a blood vessel within the brain or on the brain’s surface. Most strokes occur as a result of degenerative changes in the body’s blood vessels. The chance of having a stroke increases with age. Approximately 70% of all strokes occur in people age 65 or older. The risk of stroke doubles with every decade after age 55.
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Nebraska State Stroke Association 6900 L Street, Suite B, Lincoln, NE 68510 Phone: 402-484-8131 Toll Free: 1-888-808-5678 |