Summary

A stroke is a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. It occurs when a blood vessel carrying oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When this happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, causing brain cells to die. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a major cause of disability in the United States. According to the American Heart Association, 80% of strokes are considered preventable.

What Is a Stroke?

  • Stroke happens in the brain, not the heart. | ataque o derrame cerebral
  • Blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or a vessel ruptures.
  • Brain cells die when deprived of oxygen and nutrients, leading to loss of brain function.
  • Stroke can cause permanent disability or death if not treated promptly.

Types of Stroke and Treatment

  • Ischemic stroke — caused by a clot obstructing blood flow to the brain.
  • Hemorrhagic stroke — caused by a blood vessel rupturing and preventing blood flow to the brain.
  • Transient ischemic attack (TIA) or “mini-stroke” — caused by a temporary clot; symptoms are brief but serve as a warning sign

Stroke and TIA require immediate medical attention:

  • Quick diagnosis and treatment can reduce brain damage and improve outcomes.

  • Prompt response is critical for survival and recovery.

B.E. F.A.S.T. is a simple way to remember common stroke warning signs | Síntomas de un ataque o derrame cerebral

  • Balance Loss – Sudden trouble walking, dizziness or loss of coordination
  • Eye (Vision) Changes – Sudden vision loss or trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Face Drooping – One side of the face droops or feels numb; a smile may look uneven
  • Arm Weakness – One arm feels weak or numb or drifts downward when raised
  • Speech Difficulty – Slurred speech or trouble speaking
  • Time to Call 911 – If someone shows any of these signs, even if symptoms go away, calling 911 right away can help get lifesaving care started. Noting when symptoms first appeared can also support treatment decisions.

Other Stroke Symptoms - Watch for Sudden:

  • NUMBNESS or weakness of face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
  • CONFUSION, trouble speaking or understanding speech
  • TROUBLE SEEING in one or both eyes
  • TROUBLE WALKING, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
  • SEVERE HEADACHE with no known cause

Effects of Stroke

  • Brain controls different body functions; when a stroke blocks blood flow, the affected body part cannot function properly.
  • Effects vary based on the area of the brain affected and can include physical, cognitive, or emotional impairments.
  • Stroke can lead to long-term disability or loss of independence.

Stroke Risk Factors | Preventing Stroke

  • About 80% of strokes are preventable.
  • Prevention includes working with healthcare professionals to manage risk factors (such as high blood pressure, diabetes, atrial fibrillation as well as other risks) and developing a personal stroke prevention plan.
  • Immediate treatment is essential if stroke or TIA symptoms occur.

Please consult with your physician or healthcare team about what is best for your health. 

Helpful Links:

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Media Inquiries and American Stroke Association Expert Perspective:214-706-1173; AHAcommunications@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org