Stroke Prevention

Just recently my stepmother Julie, suffered a large massive stroke that has now left her in the ICU for more than 2 weeks. My family and I are continuing to have faith and hope that she will become more responsive in order to be able to begin her therapy. The worst part of what happened is we are rather blind sided as to why she had the stroke in the first place. Doctors admit she is very young to have had such high volume stroke and other than a not so healthy diet there are relatively no risks factors that could have caused it. Though it is hard to keep positive when the person you love is suffering you have no choice but to think with an open mind that she will recover. Prayers are an amazing comfort healing and I know in my heart she still has a purpose. I’ve been doing my research on strokes so I can fully understand the concept of what has happened while giving my all to helping my family help her recover. I wanted to share it with all my friends and love ones!!

Why strokes happen:

• Blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to the brain are blocked by a clot (Ischemic Stroke) or they burst (Hemorrhagic Stroke).

What happens now?

• The brain is very complex which controls many body functions. If blood can not reach a particular body function then it won’t be able to function the correct way.
• One side of the brain controls the opposite side of the body. If a stroke happens on the right side of the brain, the left side of the body (right side of face) will be affected (as in my stepmother’s case) and can cause the following:
• Paralysis on the left side
• Vision problems
• Memory loss

• Quick, inquisitive behavioral style.

Know the warning signs!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

If a stroke is treated within 3 hours of sympthoms, a clot-bursting drug called TPA can be given to reduce long term disability!

 Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body!

Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding!

Sudden trouble seeing in one eye or both eyes!

Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination!

Sudden, severe headache with no known cause!

Strokes are most common in the elderly, but many people under 65 have strokes too (ie. My stepmom). What I found to be even more surprising is infants and children can have strokes too! To get more information on strokes in general and in children please visit strokeassociation.org, where I found all of my information here!

Julie keep fighting we need you!!!