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A stroke is a medical emergency that happens when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted and/or reduced preventing brain tissue from getting enough oxygen and nutrients. Without oxygen the brain cells begin to die within minutes. Strokes can cause long-term damage, disability or even death, depending on how severe they are and how quickly treatment is provided.

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Older adults are more prone to strokes because of the natural changes that occur in the body that come with age. This can be caused by weakened blood vessels, multiple health conditions, weak heart and blood circulation, and lifestyle habits.

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High blood pressure (hypertension) is the most common contributor to having a stroke. This is because of the constant high pressure against the walls of the arteries which causes them to be weakened over time. When arteries become weak, they can become more narrow and/or clogged which can reduce/block blood flow to the brain. It can also cause an artery to burst or leak, which can cause a hemorrhagic stroke. If the artery becomes damaged, they a more likely to develop plaque or clots. If a clot travels to the brain, it can block a blood vessel and cut off oxygen to that area.

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Having a heart disease contributes to having a stroke because it affects how efficient the heart pumps blood and how it flows throughout the body. Blood clots can form due to irregular heartbeats (atrial fibrillation) and can travel to the brain and block an artery. In addition, having a weak heart (heart failure) means that the heart can pump blood efficiently. Also having damaged arteries can cause blockages to form.

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Diabetes contributes to having a stoke because it damages blood vessels and affects how the body handles blood sugar and fats. Diabetes can damage blood vessels, increase the risk of hypertension, high cholesterol and blood clots, and slows down the brains recovery time.

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Smoking tobacco damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure, makes blood stickier which can form blood clots, and reduces oxygen in the blood.

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Heavily drinking alcohol can cause high blood pressure, irregular heart beats, damaged blood vessels, obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

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Having an unhealthy diet can affect heart health and blood flow. This is because it can cause high blood pressure, increase cholesterol, and obesity.

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Strokes can be prevented by managing blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, maintain a healthy weight, abstain from smoking, minimize alcohol consumption, have a healthy diet, exercise, and manage other health issues.

https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/prevention/index.html

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The short-term side effect of a stroke include physical impairment, memory problems, speech difficulty, depression, anxiety, pain, fatigue, weakness, damaged nerves, and changes in sensation.

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/effects-of-stroke

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The long-term side effects are similar to the short-term side effects. It consists of difficulty swallowing, blurred or loss of vision, paralysis, memory loss, bowel and bladder problems, and unstable moods.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7911065/

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One immediate treatment that can be used to treat someone who has had a stroke is a surgery to stop the bleeding and reduce pressure on the brain. A long-term treatment can consist of physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, blood thinners and blood pressure medication, properly managing high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol. In addition, changing lifestyle habits can be a beneficial form of treatment as well.

The surgery can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000+.

The cost of the long-term treatment can range from $20,000 to $75,000+ over the span of several months.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4544732/

https://www.resolvemedicalbills.com/blog/the-true-cost-of-a-stroke-in-the-us

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By: Dakota Holland

African Americans have a higher risk of having a stroke than other races in the US. More than 2/3 have a minimum of one risk factors for a stroke. This can include uncontrollable risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, sickle cell anemia, etc. Many also have risk factors due to lifestyle like smoking, stress, salt intake, etc.

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What Every Black Person Should Know About The Risk of Stroke

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Black people in the U.S. are more likely to have a stroke than white people. Learn how genetics, location, and socioeconomic factors may all play a role.

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1. Managing blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol.

2. Taking care of your heart.

3. Eating well.

4. Quitting smoking.

5. Exercising and being active.

6. Avoiding drugs and alcohol.

7. Improving nutrition.

8. Caring for mental health.

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🏃‍♀️ Exercise

Getting about 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week (that’s just over 20 minutes a day) can make a big difference. Whether it’s a brisk walk, dancing, swimming, or biking—find something you enjoy and keep moving. Exercise helps lower blood pressure, manage weight, and improve overall health.

🚭 Don’t smoke

Smoking damages your blood vessels and raises your risk of stroke. Even second-hand smoke can be harmful. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about ways to quit—there are programs and medications that can really help.

🍺 Watch your alcohol intake

Too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure. If you drink, do so in moderation, and talk to your doctor about when or if it’s safe for you to start again.

⚖️ Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight increases your stroke risk. You don’t have to go it alone—work with your doctor to create a realistic and sustainable plan for weight loss through better eating and physical activity.

🧀 Lower your cholesterol

Eating heart-healthy foods like fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help.

😌 Manage stress

Life gets stressful, and that’s okay—but learning how to cope can help your health. Talk to your doctor about relaxation techniques, therapy, or activities that help you unwind.

🥗 Eat better

Focus on whole foods and cut back on processed stuff, sugar, and salt. Try to limit red meat and opt for fish or poultry more often. Small changes to your meals can really add up.

💙 Take care of your mental health

Don’t keep things bottled up—if you're feeling anxious, down, or overwhelmed, reach out. Your care team can help connect you with support.

💉 Keep your blood pressure in check

High blood pressure is one of the biggest stroke risks—but it’s manageable. Cutting back on alcohol, reducing stress, and taking prescribed medication all help.

🍬 Manage your blood sugar

If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar in a healthy range is important for preventing stroke. Work closely with your doctor to stay on track.

👩‍⚕️ Stay in touch with your doctor

You don’t have to figure everything out alone. Your doctor can help you decide if medication like aspirin is right for you, and screen for conditions like atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat that can raise your stroke risk).

Source:

https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/neurosciences/comprehensive-stroke-centers/recover-and-support/lifestyle-changes-after-a-stroke

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The CDC has a program called Paul Coverdell National Acute Stroke Program (PCNASP). This program uses evident based systems to help prevent and treat strokes effectively, it’s important to have systems in place that can quickly identify when someone is having a stroke and get them to a hospital that specializes in stroke care, provide high-quality treatment and rehab right away, and support patients as they return to their regular doctors and daily life, focusing on lowering the chances of having another stroke by managing risk factors.

The Million Hearts initiative is led by the CDC and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, aims to prevent heart attacks and strokes by focusing on a few key strategies. In communities, the focus is on preventing problems before they start—like helping people quit smoking, cutting back on salt in diets, and encouraging regular physical activity. In healthcare settings, it involves things like making sure patients use aspirin when it’s right for them, keeping blood pressure and cholesterol under control, and supporting people in quitting smoking. They also use technology to catch health risks earlier and manage them better, while encouraging patients and families to be active participants in their health care decisions.

Source(s):

https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/66/wr/mm6618a5.htm

https://millionhearts.hhs.gov/

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🩸Monitoring your blood pressure and getting it treated if it’s high is one of the most important things you can do for your heart and overall vascular health. Properly managing your blood pressure can reduce the chances of having a stroke. Reducing the amount of salt consumption, avoiding high cholesterol foods, eating fruits and vegetables daily, exercise consistently, quit smoking, and limit or stop drinking alcohol.

Source:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/8-things-you-can-do-to-prevent-a-strokeLinks to an external site.

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🩺 Atrial fibrillation is a type of irregular heartbeat that can cause blood clots to form in the heart. If one of those clots travels to the brain, it can lead to a stroke. It increases the risk of stroke by nearly five times, so it’s something that shouldn’t be ignored and should be monitored regularly.

Source:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/8-things-you-can-do-to-prevent-a-stroke

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Hispanics are more likely to suffer from a stroke due to language barriers, less access to healthcare, and lower rates of insurance coverage can delay the diagnosis and treatment of stroke risk factors. Cultural factors, like dietary habits and less frequent preventative care visits, can also increase stroke risk. In both groups, the challenges are about more than just individual health—they’re also tied to systemic inequalities and social determinants of health, like income, education, and access to healthcare.

Source:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stroke/symptoms-causes/syc-20350113#:~:text=Race%20or%20ethnicity%20—%20African%20American,of%20strokes%20than%20are%20men

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Men tend to suffer from a stroke more than women because they are more likely to have certain risk factors earlier in life, like high blood pressure and heart disease. They’re also more likely to engage in behaviors that increase stroke risk, such as smoking, heavy alcohol use, and poor diet. Hormones may also play a role.

Source:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stroke/symptoms-causes/syc-20350113#:~:text=Race%20or%20ethnicity%20—%20African%20American,of%20strokes%20than%20are%20men

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There are three diagnostic tools used to diagnose a stroke:

1.) CT (computed tomography) or CAT scan which uses radiation to create an x-ray like picture of the brain. It is used to determine the location of where the clogged artery is.

2.) MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is used to gather a more detailed image of the brain to give a proper diagnosis of the deeper injuries to the brain.

3.) CTA (computed tomographic angiography) is a special dye that is injected into a vein. Images are then taken of the blood vessels to look for abnormalities.

https://www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke/types-of-stroke/common-diagnosis-methods

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Many signs and symptoms can be used to identify a stroke while it is happening. Rapid identification is crucial to stroke survival and recovery. Stroke symptoms always have a rapid onset.

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Learn about the signs of stroke in men and women and when to seek emergency treatment.

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A stroke must be identified quickly to prevent long-term consequences. Official medical diagnosis comes from brain scans, blood tests, and neurological exams.

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Diagnosis

Strokes FAQ Neurologist Robert D. Brown, Jr. M.D., M.P.H., answers the most frequently asked questions about strokes.

Show transcript

Hi, I'm Dr. Robert Brown, a neurologist at Mayo Clinic. And I'm here to answer some of the important question you may have about strokes.

The fast acronym, F.A.S.T., is a good way of remembering stroke symptoms and what to do if you or a friend or loved one experiences those symptoms. F for facial weakness, A for arm weakness, S for speech slurring, and T for time. Time to call 911 should those symptoms occur. Sometimes stroke symptoms may be temporary, lasting only several minutes or hours, and this is called a transient ischemic attack. The symptoms should not be ignored even if they are temporary. The risk of stroke is markedly increased in the days and weeks after those symptoms occur, so seek emergency evaluation to clarify why the symptoms occurred and how best to prevent a future stroke.

An aneurysm is a small saccular-shaped or berry-shaped out-pouching off of an artery in the brain. About two to three percent of the population has a brain aneurysm, and most never cause any symptoms. But on occasion, that aneurysm can rupture, leading to bleeding into and surrounding the brain, a bleeding type of stroke called a subarachnoid hemorrhage. People with that type of hemorrhage typically present with a sudden onset of a very severe headache, unlike anything they've ever experienced before, and they should seek emergency medical care.

The brain cells are affected very quickly after a stroke occurs. In the most common type of stroke, called an ischemic stroke, or cerebral infarction, there's a lack of blood flow to an area of the brain leading the brain cells to begin to die off due to a lack of oxygen and other nutrients. Emergency treatments can sometimes be used to restore the blood flow. Stroke treatments are most effective if they can be used early after stroke symptoms occur.

Most strokes are preventable. And stroke prevention is far more effective than trying to treat a stroke after it has occurred. There are both non-modifiable risk factors, those things we cannot change, and modifiable risk factors, those things that can be changed. Non-modifiable risk factors include age, race, gender, and family history of stroke. Modifiable risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, cigarette smoking, diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, lack of regular exercise, obesity, heavy alcohol use, recreational drug use, and some types of heart disease.

Every stroke is a little bit different because any area of the brain can be affected by a stroke. Some strokes lead to only mild symptoms, and others are more severe and have a major impact on speech, strength, swallowing, walking, and vision. The patient with a stroke will typically start therapies very early after a stroke, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. A person can continue to recover from a stroke for many months after a stroke up to a year or even longer. This recovery is a very gradual process. But don't give up. Celebrate the gains from week to week and month to month.

If you have any stroke risk factors, partner with your medical team to control them. If stroke symptoms occur, seek emergency care. Work with your medical team to arrange for the appropriate evaluation to clarify why the stroke happened, and institute strategies to prevent another stroke from occurring in the future. Take your medications as advised. Your medical team will also institute therapies to help you with any deficit that you might have related to your stroke so that you can live your life to the fullest after a stroke occurs. Thank you for your time and we wish you well.

During a stroke, things move quickly once you get to the hospital. Your emergency team works to learn what type of stroke you're having. You'll likely have a CT scan or other imaging test soon after arrival. Healthcare professionals also need to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms, such as a brain tumor or a drug reaction.

Stroke consultation

Stroke consultation at Mayo Clinic

Tests

Some of the tests you may have include:

A physical exam. A healthcare professional does several tests, including listening to your heart and checking your blood pressure. A neurological exam looks at how a potential stroke is affecting your nervous system.

Blood tests. You may need tests to check how fast your blood clots and whether your blood sugar is too high or low. You also may be tested to see if you have an infection.

Computerized tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan uses a series of X-rays to create a detailed image of your brain. A CT scan can show bleeding in the brain, an ischemic stroke, a tumor or other conditions. You might have a dye injected into your bloodstream to view the blood vessels in the neck and brain in greater detail. This type of test is called a computerized tomography angiography.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI uses powerful radio waves and a magnetic field to create a detailed view of the brain. The test can detect brain tissue damaged by an ischemic stroke and brain hemorrhages. Sometimes a dye is injected into a blood vessel to view the arteries and veins and highlight blood flow. This test is called magnetic resonance angiography or magnetic resonance venography.

Carotid ultrasound. In this test, sound waves create detailed images of the inside of the carotid arteries in the neck. A carotid ultrasound can show buildup of fatty deposits called plaques and blood flow in the carotid arteries.

Cerebral angiogram. This test is less common, but it provides a detailed view of arteries in the brain and neck. A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted through a small incision, usually in the groin. The tube is guided through the major arteries and into the carotid or vertebral artery in the neck. Then a dye is injected into the blood vessels to make the arteries visible under X-ray imaging.

Echocardiogram. An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create detailed images of the heart. An echocardiogram can find a source of clots in the heart that may have traveled to the brain and caused a stroke.

More Information

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Treatment

Emergency treatment depends on whether you're having an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. During an ischemic stroke, blood vessels in the brain are blocked or narrowed. During a hemorrhagic stroke, there's bleeding into the brain.

Ischemic stroke

To treat an ischemic stroke, blood flow must quickly be restored to the brain. This may be done with:

Emergency IV medicine. An IV medicine that can break up a clot has to be given within 4.5 hours from when symptoms began. The sooner the medicine is given, the better. Quick treatment improves your chances of survival and may reduce complications.

An IV injection of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) is the gold standard treatment for ischemic stroke. The two types of TPA are alteplase (Activase) and tenecteplase (TNKase). An injection of TPA is usually given through a vein in the arm within the first three hours. Sometimes, TPA can be given up to 4.5 hours after stroke symptoms started.

This medicine restores blood flow by dissolving the blood clot causing the stroke. By quickly removing the cause of the stroke, it may help people recover more fully from a stroke. Your healthcare professional considers certain risks, such as potential bleeding in the brain, to determine whether TPA is appropriate for you.

Emergency endovascular procedures. Healthcare professionals sometimes treat ischemic strokes directly inside the blocked blood vessel. Endovascular therapy has been shown to improve outcomes and reduce long-term disability after ischemic stroke. These procedures must be performed as soon as possible:

Medicines delivered directly to the brain. During this procedure, a long, thin tube called a catheter is inserted through an artery in the groin. The catheter is moved through the arteries to the brain to deliver TPA directly where the stroke is happening. The time window for this treatment is somewhat longer than for injected TPA but is still limited.

Removing the clot with a stent retriever. A device attached to a catheter can directly remove the clot from the blocked blood vessel in the brain. This procedure is especially helpful for people with large clots that can't be completely dissolved with TPA. This procedure often is performed in combination with injected TPA.

The time window when these procedures can be considered has been expanding due to newer imaging technology. Perfusion imaging tests done with CT or MRI help determine if that someone may benefit from endovascular therapy.

Other procedures

Your healthcare professional may recommend a procedure to open up an artery that is narrowed by plaque. This type of procedure is done to lower your risk of having another stroke or transient ischemic attack. Options vary, but include:

Carotid endarterectomy. Carotid arteries are the blood vessels that run along each side of the neck, supplying the brain with blood. This surgery removes the plaque blocking a carotid artery and may reduce the risk of ischemic stroke. A carotid endarterectomy also involves risks, especially for people with heart disease or other medical conditions.

Angioplasty and stents. In an angioplasty, a surgeon threads a catheter to the carotid arteries through an artery in the groin. A balloon is then inflated to expand the narrowed artery. Then a stent can be inserted to support the opened artery.

Hemorrhagic stroke

Emergency treatment of hemorrhagic stroke focuses on controlling the bleeding and reducing pressure in the brain caused by excess fluid.

Emergency measures

If you take blood-thinning medicines to prevent blood clots, you may be given treatment to counteract the blood thinners' effects. These treatments include medicines or a transfusion of blood products. Medicines also can lower the pressure in your brain, lower blood pressure, prevent spasms of the blood vessels and prevent seizures.

Surgery

If the area of bleeding is large, you may need surgery to remove the blood and relieve pressure on your brain. Surgery also may be used to repair blood vessel damage associated with hemorrhagic strokes.

Your healthcare professional may recommend one of these procedures if an aneurysm, arteriovenous malformation (AVM) or other blood vessel condition caused the stroke.

Surgical clipping. A surgeon places a tiny clamp at the base of an aneurysm to stop blood flow to it. An aneurysm is a bulge at a weak spot in a blood vessel. The clamp can keep the aneurysm from bursting. Or the clamp can keep an aneurysm that has recently burst from bleeding again.

Coiling, also known as endovascular embolization. A catheter is inserted into an artery in the groin and guided to the brain. Using the catheter, a surgeon places tiny coils into the aneurysm to fill it. This blocks blood flow into the aneurysm and causes blood to clot.

Surgical removal of a tangle of thin-walled blood vessels, known as an AVM. Surgeons may remove a smaller AVM if it's in an area of the brain that's easy to access. This removes the risk of rupture and lowers the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. However, it's not always possible to remove an AVM if it's deep within the brain or if it's large. It also may not be possible to remove if the procedure would impact brain function.

Stereotactic radiosurgery. This procedure uses multiple beams of highly focused radiation to repair blood vessel malformations. Stereotactic radiosurgery is an advanced treatment that's not as invasive as other procedures.

Stroke recovery and rehabilitation

After emergency treatment, you're closely monitored for at least a day. After that, stroke care focuses on helping you recover as much function as possible and to return to independent living. The impact of the stroke depends on the area of the brain involved and the amount of tissue damaged.

If the stroke affected the right side of the brain, movement and feeling on the left side of your body may be affected. If the stroke damaged the left side of the brain, movement and feeling on the right side of your body may be affected. Brain damage to the left side of the brain also may cause speech and language disorders.

Most people who have had a stroke go to a rehabilitation program. Your healthcare professional can recommend the therapy program that is right for you. A program is recommended based on your age, overall health and degree of disability from the stroke. Your lifestyle, interests, priorities and whether you have help from family members or caregivers are considered.

Rehabilitation may begin before you leave the hospital. After discharge, you might continue the program in a rehabilitation unit of the same hospital. Or you may go to another rehabilitation unit or to a skilled nursing facility as an outpatient. You also might have rehabilitation at home.

Every person's stroke recovery is different. Depending on your condition, your treatment team may include:

Doctor trained in brain conditions, known as a neurologist.

Rehabilitation doctor, known as a physiatrist.

Rehabilitation nurse.

Dietitian.

Physical therapist.

Occupational therapist.

Recreational therapist.

Speech pathologist.

Social worker or case manager.

Psychologist or psychiatrist.

Chaplain.

Speech therapy is often a part of stroke rehabilitation.

More Information

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Treatment outcomes

One way to evaluate the care of patients diagnosed with stroke is to look at the percentage of patients receiving the timely and effective care measures that are appropriate.

The graphs below display the percentage of eligible Mayo Clinic patients diagnosed with stroke receiving all of the appropriate care measures.

Stroke Core Measure
See related graph.
Carotid Endarterectomy Mortality

See related graph.

Carotid Stenting Mortality

See related graph.

Comprehensive Stroke Measure
See related graph.
Comprehensive Stroke - Arrival Time to Skin Puncture
See related graph.
Comprehensive Stroke - Post Thrombolysis Revascularization Rate
See related graph.
Comprehensive Stroke - Timeliness of IV t-PA Therapy
See related graph.
For additional information and data visit Medicare Hospital Compare.

For additional information about quality at Mayo Clinic visit Quality Measures.

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Explore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.

Coping and support

A stroke is a life-changing event that can affect your emotional well-being as much as your physical function. Some people may feel frustrated or depressed. A stroke may cause mood changes and a lower sex drive.

Maintaining your self-esteem, connections to others and interest in the world are essential parts of your recovery. Several strategies may help you and your caregivers, including:

Don't be hard on yourself. Physical and emotional recovery involves tough work and takes time. Celebrate your progress. Allow time for rest.

Join a support group. Meeting with others recovering from a stroke lets you get out and share experiences. You also can exchange information and build new friendships.

Let friends and family know what you need. People may want to help, but they may not know what to do. Let them know how they can help. You might ask that they bring over a meal and stay to eat with you and talk. Or you might ask that they attend social events or religious activities with you.

Communication challenges

Speech and language can be hard after a stroke. Here are some tips to help you and your caregivers cope with communication challenges:

Practice. Try to have a conversation at least once a day. It can help you learn what works best for you. It also can help you feel connected and rebuild your confidence.

Relax and take your time. Talking may be easiest and most enjoyable in a relaxing situation when you're not rushed. Some people who have had a stroke find that after dinner is a good time for conversation.

Say it your way. When you're recovering from a stroke, you may need to use fewer words. Rely on gestures or use your tone of voice to communicate.

Use props and communication aids. You may find it helpful to use cue cards to communicate. Cue cards might include words used often. Or they might include pictures of close friends and family members, a favorite television show, the bathroom, or other wants and needs.

Preparing for your appointment

A stroke in progress is usually diagnosed in a hospital. If you're having a stroke, your immediate care focuses on reducing brain damage. If you haven't had a stroke but you're worried about your risk, talk to your healthcare professional at your next appointment.

What to expect from your doctor

In the emergency room, you may see an emergency medicine specialist or a doctor trained in brain conditions, known as a neurologist. Nurses and medical technicians also are likely to be involved in your care.

Your emergency team's first priority is to stabilize your symptoms and overall medical condition. Then the team determines if you're having a stroke. Healthcare professionals try to find the cause of the stroke to determine the proper treatment.

If you're seeking medical advice during a scheduled appointment, your healthcare professional considers your risk factors for stroke and heart disease. Your healthcare professional can offer advice on how to lower your risk. This may include lifestyle strategies, stopping smoking or not using illicit drugs. Your healthcare professional also may consider if you need medicines to control high blood pressure, cholesterol and other stroke risk factors.

Stroke care at Mayo Clinic

Show references

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20. Suppah M, et al. An evidence-based approach to anticoagulation therapy comparing direct oral anticoagulants and vitamin K antagonists in patients with atrial fibrillation and bioprosthetic valves: A systematic review, meta-analysis and network meta-analysis. American Journal of Cardiology. 2023; doi:10.1016/j.amjcard.2023.07.141.

21. Tyagi K, et al. Neurological manifestations of SARS-CoV-2: Complexity, mechanism and associated disorders. European Journal of Medical Research. 2023; doi:10.1186/s40001-023-01293-2.

22. Siegler JE, et al. Cerebrovascular disease in COVID-19. Viruses. 2023; doi:10.3390/v15071598.

23. Lombardo M, et al. Health effects of red wine consumption: A narrative review of an issue that still deserves debate. Nutrients. 2023; doi:10.3390/nu15081921.

24. Jim J. Complications of carotid endarterectomy. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Oct. 2, 2023.

25. Van Nimwegan D, et al. Interventions for improving psychosocial well-being after stroke: A systematic review. International Journal of Nursing Studies. 2023; doi:10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2023.104492.

26. Hasan TF, et al. Diagnosis and management of acute ischemic stroke. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2018; doi:10.1016/j.mayocp.2018.02.013.

27. Ami TR. Allscripts EPSi. Mayo Clinic. Sept. 4, 2023.

28. Barrett KM, et al. Ambulance-based assessment of NIH stroke scale with telemedicine: A feasibility pilot study. Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare. 2017; doi:10.1177/1357633X16648490.

29. Sener U, et al. Ischemic stroke in patients with malignancy. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2022; doi:10.1016/j.mayocp.2022.09.003.

30. Quality check. The Joint Commission. https://www.qualitycheck.org/search/?keyword=mayo%20clinic. Accessed Oct. 4, 2023.

31. Quality care you can trust. American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/professional/quality-improvement/hospital-maps. Accessed Oct. 4, 2023.

32. Attig JM. Allscripts EPSi. Mayo Clinic. Oct. 9, 2023.

33. How much physical activity do you need? American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-infographic. Accessed Oct. 12, 2023.

34. Graff-Radford J (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Oct. 11, 2023.

35. Healthcare. DNV Healthcare USA, Inc. https://www.dnvhealthcareportal.com/hospitals?search_type=and&q=mayo+clinic&c=&c=20806&c=&c=&prSubmit=Search. Accessed Nov. 1, 2023.

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Promptly spotting stroke symptoms leads to faster treatment and less damage to the brain.

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Stroke treatment relies on the quick work of medical professionals to remove the blockage or repair the broken blood vessels.

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Diagnosis

Strokes FAQ Neurologist Robert D. Brown, Jr. M.D., M.P.H., answers the most frequently asked questions about strokes.

Show transcript

Hi, I'm Dr. Robert Brown, a neurologist at Mayo Clinic. And I'm here to answer some of the important question you may have about strokes.

The fast acronym, F.A.S.T., is a good way of remembering stroke symptoms and what to do if you or a friend or loved one experiences those symptoms. F for facial weakness, A for arm weakness, S for speech slurring, and T for time. Time to call 911 should those symptoms occur. Sometimes stroke symptoms may be temporary, lasting only several minutes or hours, and this is called a transient ischemic attack. The symptoms should not be ignored even if they are temporary. The risk of stroke is markedly increased in the days and weeks after those symptoms occur, so seek emergency evaluation to clarify why the symptoms occurred and how best to prevent a future stroke.

An aneurysm is a small saccular-shaped or berry-shaped out-pouching off of an artery in the brain. About two to three percent of the population has a brain aneurysm, and most never cause any symptoms. But on occasion, that aneurysm can rupture, leading to bleeding into and surrounding the brain, a bleeding type of stroke called a subarachnoid hemorrhage. People with that type of hemorrhage typically present with a sudden onset of a very severe headache, unlike anything they've ever experienced before, and they should seek emergency medical care.

The brain cells are affected very quickly after a stroke occurs. In the most common type of stroke, called an ischemic stroke, or cerebral infarction, there's a lack of blood flow to an area of the brain leading the brain cells to begin to die off due to a lack of oxygen and other nutrients. Emergency treatments can sometimes be used to restore the blood flow. Stroke treatments are most effective if they can be used early after stroke symptoms occur.

Most strokes are preventable. And stroke prevention is far more effective than trying to treat a stroke after it has occurred. There are both non-modifiable risk factors, those things we cannot change, and modifiable risk factors, those things that can be changed. Non-modifiable risk factors include age, race, gender, and family history of stroke. Modifiable risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, cigarette smoking, diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, lack of regular exercise, obesity, heavy alcohol use, recreational drug use, and some types of heart disease.

Every stroke is a little bit different because any area of the brain can be affected by a stroke. Some strokes lead to only mild symptoms, and others are more severe and have a major impact on speech, strength, swallowing, walking, and vision. The patient with a stroke will typically start therapies very early after a stroke, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. A person can continue to recover from a stroke for many months after a stroke up to a year or even longer. This recovery is a very gradual process. But don't give up. Celebrate the gains from week to week and month to month.

If you have any stroke risk factors, partner with your medical team to control them. If stroke symptoms occur, seek emergency care. Work with your medical team to arrange for the appropriate evaluation to clarify why the stroke happened, and institute strategies to prevent another stroke from occurring in the future. Take your medications as advised. Your medical team will also institute therapies to help you with any deficit that you might have related to your stroke so that you can live your life to the fullest after a stroke occurs. Thank you for your time and we wish you well.

During a stroke, things move quickly once you get to the hospital. Your emergency team works to learn what type of stroke you're having. You'll likely have a CT scan or other imaging test soon after arrival. Healthcare professionals also need to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms, such as a brain tumor or a drug reaction.

Stroke consultation

Stroke consultation at Mayo Clinic

Tests

Some of the tests you may have include:

A physical exam. A healthcare professional does several tests, including listening to your heart and checking your blood pressure. A neurological exam looks at how a potential stroke is affecting your nervous system.

Blood tests. You may need tests to check how fast your blood clots and whether your blood sugar is too high or low. You also may be tested to see if you have an infection.

Computerized tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan uses a series of X-rays to create a detailed image of your brain. A CT scan can show bleeding in the brain, an ischemic stroke, a tumor or other conditions. You might have a dye injected into your bloodstream to view the blood vessels in the neck and brain in greater detail. This type of test is called a computerized tomography angiography.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI uses powerful radio waves and a magnetic field to create a detailed view of the brain. The test can detect brain tissue damaged by an ischemic stroke and brain hemorrhages. Sometimes a dye is injected into a blood vessel to view the arteries and veins and highlight blood flow. This test is called magnetic resonance angiography or magnetic resonance venography.

Carotid ultrasound. In this test, sound waves create detailed images of the inside of the carotid arteries in the neck. A carotid ultrasound can show buildup of fatty deposits called plaques and blood flow in the carotid arteries.

Cerebral angiogram. This test is less common, but it provides a detailed view of arteries in the brain and neck. A thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted through a small incision, usually in the groin. The tube is guided through the major arteries and into the carotid or vertebral artery in the neck. Then a dye is injected into the blood vessels to make the arteries visible under X-ray imaging.

Echocardiogram. An echocardiogram uses sound waves to create detailed images of the heart. An echocardiogram can find a source of clots in the heart that may have traveled to the brain and caused a stroke.

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Treatment

Emergency treatment depends on whether you're having an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. During an ischemic stroke, blood vessels in the brain are blocked or narrowed. During a hemorrhagic stroke, there's bleeding into the brain.

Ischemic stroke

To treat an ischemic stroke, blood flow must quickly be restored to the brain. This may be done with:

Emergency IV medicine. An IV medicine that can break up a clot has to be given within 4.5 hours from when symptoms began. The sooner the medicine is given, the better. Quick treatment improves your chances of survival and may reduce complications.

An IV injection of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) is the gold standard treatment for ischemic stroke. The two types of TPA are alteplase (Activase) and tenecteplase (TNKase). An injection of TPA is usually given through a vein in the arm within the first three hours. Sometimes, TPA can be given up to 4.5 hours after stroke symptoms started.

This medicine restores blood flow by dissolving the blood clot causing the stroke. By quickly removing the cause of the stroke, it may help people recover more fully from a stroke. Your healthcare professional considers certain risks, such as potential bleeding in the brain, to determine whether TPA is appropriate for you.

Emergency endovascular procedures. Healthcare professionals sometimes treat ischemic strokes directly inside the blocked blood vessel. Endovascular therapy has been shown to improve outcomes and reduce long-term disability after ischemic stroke. These procedures must be performed as soon as possible:

Medicines delivered directly to the brain. During this procedure, a long, thin tube called a catheter is inserted through an artery in the groin. The catheter is moved through the arteries to the brain to deliver TPA directly where the stroke is happening. The time window for this treatment is somewhat longer than for injected TPA but is still limited.

Removing the clot with a stent retriever. A device attached to a catheter can directly remove the clot from the blocked blood vessel in the brain. This procedure is especially helpful for people with large clots that can't be completely dissolved with TPA. This procedure often is performed in combination with injected TPA.

The time window when these procedures can be considered has been expanding due to newer imaging technology. Perfusion imaging tests done with CT or MRI help determine if that someone may benefit from endovascular therapy.

Other procedures

Your healthcare professional may recommend a procedure to open up an artery that is narrowed by plaque. This type of procedure is done to lower your risk of having another stroke or transient ischemic attack. Options vary, but include:

Carotid endarterectomy. Carotid arteries are the blood vessels that run along each side of the neck, supplying the brain with blood. This surgery removes the plaque blocking a carotid artery and may reduce the risk of ischemic stroke. A carotid endarterectomy also involves risks, especially for people with heart disease or other medical conditions.

Angioplasty and stents. In an angioplasty, a surgeon threads a catheter to the carotid arteries through an artery in the groin. A balloon is then inflated to expand the narrowed artery. Then a stent can be inserted to support the opened artery.

Hemorrhagic stroke

Emergency treatment of hemorrhagic stroke focuses on controlling the bleeding and reducing pressure in the brain caused by excess fluid.

Emergency measures

If you take blood-thinning medicines to prevent blood clots, you may be given treatment to counteract the blood thinners' effects. These treatments include medicines or a transfusion of blood products. Medicines also can lower the pressure in your brain, lower blood pressure, prevent spasms of the blood vessels and prevent seizures.

Surgery

If the area of bleeding is large, you may need surgery to remove the blood and relieve pressure on your brain. Surgery also may be used to repair blood vessel damage associated with hemorrhagic strokes.

Your healthcare professional may recommend one of these procedures if an aneurysm, arteriovenous malformation (AVM) or other blood vessel condition caused the stroke.

Surgical clipping. A surgeon places a tiny clamp at the base of an aneurysm to stop blood flow to it. An aneurysm is a bulge at a weak spot in a blood vessel. The clamp can keep the aneurysm from bursting. Or the clamp can keep an aneurysm that has recently burst from bleeding again.

Coiling, also known as endovascular embolization. A catheter is inserted into an artery in the groin and guided to the brain. Using the catheter, a surgeon places tiny coils into the aneurysm to fill it. This blocks blood flow into the aneurysm and causes blood to clot.

Surgical removal of a tangle of thin-walled blood vessels, known as an AVM. Surgeons may remove a smaller AVM if it's in an area of the brain that's easy to access. This removes the risk of rupture and lowers the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. However, it's not always possible to remove an AVM if it's deep within the brain or if it's large. It also may not be possible to remove if the procedure would impact brain function.

Stereotactic radiosurgery. This procedure uses multiple beams of highly focused radiation to repair blood vessel malformations. Stereotactic radiosurgery is an advanced treatment that's not as invasive as other procedures.

Stroke recovery and rehabilitation

After emergency treatment, you're closely monitored for at least a day. After that, stroke care focuses on helping you recover as much function as possible and to return to independent living. The impact of the stroke depends on the area of the brain involved and the amount of tissue damaged.

If the stroke affected the right side of the brain, movement and feeling on the left side of your body may be affected. If the stroke damaged the left side of the brain, movement and feeling on the right side of your body may be affected. Brain damage to the left side of the brain also may cause speech and language disorders.

Most people who have had a stroke go to a rehabilitation program. Your healthcare professional can recommend the therapy program that is right for you. A program is recommended based on your age, overall health and degree of disability from the stroke. Your lifestyle, interests, priorities and whether you have help from family members or caregivers are considered.

Rehabilitation may begin before you leave the hospital. After discharge, you might continue the program in a rehabilitation unit of the same hospital. Or you may go to another rehabilitation unit or to a skilled nursing facility as an outpatient. You also might have rehabilitation at home.

Every person's stroke recovery is different. Depending on your condition, your treatment team may include:

Doctor trained in brain conditions, known as a neurologist.

Rehabilitation doctor, known as a physiatrist.

Rehabilitation nurse.

Dietitian.

Physical therapist.

Occupational therapist.

Recreational therapist.

Speech pathologist.

Social worker or case manager.

Psychologist or psychiatrist.

Chaplain.

Speech therapy is often a part of stroke rehabilitation.

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Treatment outcomes

One way to evaluate the care of patients diagnosed with stroke is to look at the percentage of patients receiving the timely and effective care measures that are appropriate.

The graphs below display the percentage of eligible Mayo Clinic patients diagnosed with stroke receiving all of the appropriate care measures.

Stroke Core Measure
See related graph.
Carotid Endarterectomy Mortality

See related graph.

Carotid Stenting Mortality

See related graph.

Comprehensive Stroke Measure
See related graph.
Comprehensive Stroke - Arrival Time to Skin Puncture
See related graph.
Comprehensive Stroke - Post Thrombolysis Revascularization Rate
See related graph.
Comprehensive Stroke - Timeliness of IV t-PA Therapy
See related graph.
For additional information and data visit Medicare Hospital Compare.

For additional information about quality at Mayo Clinic visit Quality Measures.

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Clinical trials

Explore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.

Coping and support

A stroke is a life-changing event that can affect your emotional well-being as much as your physical function. Some people may feel frustrated or depressed. A stroke may cause mood changes and a lower sex drive.

Maintaining your self-esteem, connections to others and interest in the world are essential parts of your recovery. Several strategies may help you and your caregivers, including:

Don't be hard on yourself. Physical and emotional recovery involves tough work and takes time. Celebrate your progress. Allow time for rest.

Join a support group. Meeting with others recovering from a stroke lets you get out and share experiences. You also can exchange information and build new friendships.

Let friends and family know what you need. People may want to help, but they may not know what to do. Let them know how they can help. You might ask that they bring over a meal and stay to eat with you and talk. Or you might ask that they attend social events or religious activities with you.

Communication challenges

Speech and language can be hard after a stroke. Here are some tips to help you and your caregivers cope with communication challenges:

Practice. Try to have a conversation at least once a day. It can help you learn what works best for you. It also can help you feel connected and rebuild your confidence.

Relax and take your time. Talking may be easiest and most enjoyable in a relaxing situation when you're not rushed. Some people who have had a stroke find that after dinner is a good time for conversation.

Say it your way. When you're recovering from a stroke, you may need to use fewer words. Rely on gestures or use your tone of voice to communicate.

Use props and communication aids. You may find it helpful to use cue cards to communicate. Cue cards might include words used often. Or they might include pictures of close friends and family members, a favorite television show, the bathroom, or other wants and needs.

Preparing for your appointment

A stroke in progress is usually diagnosed in a hospital. If you're having a stroke, your immediate care focuses on reducing brain damage. If you haven't had a stroke but you're worried about your risk, talk to your healthcare professional at your next appointment.

What to expect from your doctor

In the emergency room, you may see an emergency medicine specialist or a doctor trained in brain conditions, known as a neurologist. Nurses and medical technicians also are likely to be involved in your care.

Your emergency team's first priority is to stabilize your symptoms and overall medical condition. Then the team determines if you're having a stroke. Healthcare professionals try to find the cause of the stroke to determine the proper treatment.

If you're seeking medical advice during a scheduled appointment, your healthcare professional considers your risk factors for stroke and heart disease. Your healthcare professional can offer advice on how to lower your risk. This may include lifestyle strategies, stopping smoking or not using illicit drugs. Your healthcare professional also may consider if you need medicines to control high blood pressure, cholesterol and other stroke risk factors.

Stroke care at Mayo Clinic

Show references

1. Walls RM, et al., eds. Stroke. In: Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Elsevier; 2023. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

2. Ferri FF. Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2024. Elsevier; 2024. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

3. Patients and caregivers. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/public-education/know-stroke/patients-and-caregivers#. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

4. Stroke. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/stroke. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

5. Oliveira-Filho J, et al. Initial assessment and management of acute stroke. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

6. About stroke. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/healthy_living.htm. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

7. Effects of stroke. American Stroke Association. https://www.stroke.org/en/about-stroke/effects-of-stroke. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

8. Rehab therapy after a stroke. American Stroke Association. https://www.stroke.org/en/life-after-stroke/stroke-rehab/rehab-therapy-after-a-stroke. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

9. Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/arteriovenous-malformations-avms?search-term=arterial#. Accessed Oct. 2, 2023.

10. Cerebral aneurysms. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/patient-caregiver-education/fact-sheets/cerebral-aneurysms-fact-sheet. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

11. Transient ischemic attack. Merck Manual Professional Version. https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/neurologic-disorders/stroke/transient-ischemic-attack-tia?query=transient%20ischemic%20attack#. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

12. Stroke. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Post-Stroke-Rehabilitation-Fact-Sheet. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

13. Rose NS, et al. Overview of secondary prevention of ischemic stroke. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

14. Prevent stroke: What you can do. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/prevention.htm#print. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

15. Know your risk for stroke. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/risk_factors.htm#. Accessed Oct. 2, 2023.

16. Powers WJ, et al. Guidelines for the early management of patients with acute ischemic stroke: 2019 update to the 2018 guidelines for the early management of acute ischemic stroke - A guideline for healthcare professionals from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. Stroke. 2019; doi:10.1161/STR.0000000000000211.

17. Papadakis MA, et al., eds. Quick Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2023. McGraw Hill; 2023. https://accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed Sept. 13, 2023.

18. Tsao CW, et al. Heart disease and stroke statistics - 2023 update: A report from the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2023; doi:10.1161/CIR.0000000000001123.

19. Grotta JC, et al., eds. Stroke: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management. 7th ed. Elsevier, 2022. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Sept. 15, 2023.

20. Suppah M, et al. An evidence-based approach to anticoagulation therapy comparing direct oral anticoagulants and vitamin K antagonists in patients with atrial fibrillation and bioprosthetic valves: A systematic review, meta-analysis and network meta-analysis. American Journal of Cardiology. 2023; doi:10.1016/j.amjcard.2023.07.141.

21. Tyagi K, et al. Neurological manifestations of SARS-CoV-2: Complexity, mechanism and associated disorders. European Journal of Medical Research. 2023; doi:10.1186/s40001-023-01293-2.

22. Siegler JE, et al. Cerebrovascular disease in COVID-19. Viruses. 2023; doi:10.3390/v15071598.

23. Lombardo M, et al. Health effects of red wine consumption: A narrative review of an issue that still deserves debate. Nutrients. 2023; doi:10.3390/nu15081921.

24. Jim J. Complications of carotid endarterectomy. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Oct. 2, 2023.

25. Van Nimwegan D, et al. Interventions for improving psychosocial well-being after stroke: A systematic review. International Journal of Nursing Studies. 2023; doi:10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2023.104492.

26. Hasan TF, et al. Diagnosis and management of acute ischemic stroke. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2018; doi:10.1016/j.mayocp.2018.02.013.

27. Ami TR. Allscripts EPSi. Mayo Clinic. Sept. 4, 2023.

28. Barrett KM, et al. Ambulance-based assessment of NIH stroke scale with telemedicine: A feasibility pilot study. Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare. 2017; doi:10.1177/1357633X16648490.

29. Sener U, et al. Ischemic stroke in patients with malignancy. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2022; doi:10.1016/j.mayocp.2022.09.003.

30. Quality check. The Joint Commission. https://www.qualitycheck.org/search/?keyword=mayo%20clinic. Accessed Oct. 4, 2023.

31. Quality care you can trust. American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/professional/quality-improvement/hospital-maps. Accessed Oct. 4, 2023.

32. Attig JM. Allscripts EPSi. Mayo Clinic. Oct. 9, 2023.

33. How much physical activity do you need? American Heart Association. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-infographic. Accessed Oct. 12, 2023.

34. Graff-Radford J (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Oct. 11, 2023.

35. Healthcare. DNV Healthcare USA, Inc. https://www.dnvhealthcareportal.com/hospitals?search_type=and&q=mayo+clinic&c=&c=20806&c=&c=&prSubmit=Search. Accessed Nov. 1, 2023.

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Promptly spotting stroke symptoms leads to faster treatment and less damage to the brain.

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Because of the major impact a stroke has on the brain, the effects of a stroke can be long-lasting and even permanent.

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Long-term complications of stroke and secondary prevention: an overview for primary care physicians

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Despite a decline in mortality from stroke, the annual incidence in the general population is increasing. For many stroke survivors and their families, the acute stroke is the beginning of an ongoing struggle with physical impairment and subsequent…

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Diet and exercise changes can help to improve recovery from a stroke and prevent recurring strokes.

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You can help prevent stroke by making healthy lifestyle choices.

Talk with your doctor about steps you can take to lower your risk for stroke.

Overview

Many strokes can be prevented through healthy lifestyle changes and working with your health care team to control health conditions that raise your risk for stroke.

You can help prevent stroke by making healthy lifestyle choices.

Take Action and Get Inspired‎

Prevention steps and strategies

Choose healthy foods and drinks

Choosing healthy meal and snack options can help you prevent stroke. Be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Eating foods low in saturated fats, trans fat, and cholesterol and high in fiber can help prevent high cholesterol. Limiting salt ( sodium) in your diet can also lower your blood pressure. High cholesterol and high blood pressure increase your chances of having a stroke.

For more information on healthy diet and nutrition, see CDC's Nutrition website.

Keep a healthy weight

Having overweight or obesity increases your risk for stroke. To determine whether your weight is in a healthy range, doctors often calculate your body mass index (BMI). If you know your weight and height, you can calculate your BMI at CDC's Assessing Your Weight website. Doctors sometimes also use waist and hip measurements to measure excess body fat.

Get regular physical activity

Physical activity can help you stay at a healthy weight and lower your cholesterol and blood pressure levels. For adults, the surgeon general recommends 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity, such as a brisk walk, each week. Children and teens should get 1 hour of physical activity every day.

Find inspiration and tips for getting regular physical activity from the "Live to the Beat" campaign.

Don't smoke

Cigarette smoking greatly increases your chances of having a stroke. If you don't smoke, don't start. If you do smoke, quitting will lower your risk for stroke. Your doctor can suggest ways to help you quit.

For more information about tobacco use and quitting, see CDC's Smoking & Tobacco Use website.

Limit alcohol

Avoid drinking too much alcohol, which can raise your blood pressure. Men should have no more than two drinks per day, and women should have no more than one per day. For more information, visit CDC's Alcohol and Public Health website.

Control your medical conditions

Talk with your doctor about steps you can take to lower your risk for stroke.

If you have heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes, you can take steps to lower your risk for stroke.

Check cholesterol

Your doctor should test your cholesterol levels at least once every 5 years. Talk with your health care team about this simple blood test. If you have high cholesterol, medicine and lifestyle changes can help lower your risk for stroke.

Control blood pressure

High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, so be sure to have it checked on a regular basis. Talk to your health care team about how often you should check your levels. You can check your blood pressure at home, at a doctor's office, or at a pharmacy.

If you have high blood pressure, your doctor might prescribe medicine, suggest some changes in your lifestyle, or recommend that you choose foods with lower sodium (salt).

Control diabetes

If your doctor thinks you have symptoms of diabetes, he or she may recommend that you get tested. If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar levels regularly.

Talk with your health care team about treatment options. Your doctor may recommend certain lifestyle changes, such as getting more physical activity or choosing healthier foods. These actions will help keep your blood sugar under control and help lower your risk for stroke.

Treat heart disease

If you have certain heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease or atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), your health care team may recommend medical treatment or surgery. Taking care of heart problems can help prevent stroke.

Take your medicine

If you take medicine to treat heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Always ask questions if you don't understand something. Never stop taking your medicine without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

Work with your health care team

You and your health care team can work together to prevent or treat the medical conditions that lead to stroke. Discuss your treatment plan regularly, and bring a list of questions to your appointments. Learn how to find the right doctor for you from the "Live to the Beat" campaign.

If you've already had a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), your health care team will work with you to prevent further strokes. Your treatment plan will include medicine or surgery and lifestyle changes to lower your risk for another stroke. Be sure to take your medicine as directed and follow your doctor's instructions.

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Prevent stroke by making healthy living choices and managing your health conditions, such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

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Learn about stroke risk and which risk factors you can manage.

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"A stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, occurs when something blocks blood supply to part of the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts.

In either case, parts of the brain become damaged or die. A stroke can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or even death" (CDC.gov)

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Learn about what causes stroke, what happens during stroke, and when to call 9-1-1.

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The symptoms of a stroke consist of weakness and/or numbness on one side of the body causing one side of the face to droop, one arm to become weak, slurred speech, blurred or lost vision, dizziness, trouble walking, painful headaches, confusion, and difficulty swallowing.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stroke/symptoms-causes/syc-20350113