Sudden, severe headache Howard Farrington, President
back to top
What is a Stroke?
A stroke is a life threatening episode that cuts off the oxygen supply to the brain. It
can affect senses, speech, behavior, thought and memory. It can also result in paralysis,
coma and death.
What causes a Stroke?
Stroke occurs when an artery to the brain bursts or is clogged, cutting of
f the oxygen supply. Without oxygen, the affected brain tissue begins dying within
minutes. The areas of the body controlled by those brain cells cannot function properly.
Bleeding into the brain from an injury can also cause stroke.High blood pressure and the
buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries increases the risk of stroke.
How is stroke diagnosed and treated?
Physical and neurological exams confirm stroke. Damaged areas are located
through computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Drugs help prevent
clots from enlarging and new clots from forming. Surgery may remove fatty deposits from
the clogged arteries and restore blood flow. Rehabilitation helps the patient make optimum
recovery depending on the extent of damage. Much of the success of recovery depends on the
patients positive attitude and effort.
back to top
Traveler Safety Tips
- Don’t open the door in a hotel or motel without verifying who it is. If they claim
to be an employee, call the front desk and verify their purpose and access.
- When returning to your room late, use the main entrance. Be observant when entering
parking lots.
- Close the door securely and use all locking devices.
- Don’t display hotel room keys in public or leave them where they can be seen or
easily stolen.
- Do not display large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
- Don’t invite strangers to your hotel room or into your car.
- Place all valuables in the hotel safety deposit box.
- Do not leave valuables in your car.
- Lock sliding doors, windows and connecting room doors.
- Report any suspicious activity to the management immediately.
back to
top
Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way!!
NEMA is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3)
organization. We receive no federal funding but are supported exclusively through the
generosity of private donors across the country.To support the life saving efforts of the
National Emergency Medicine Association, you may send your donations or make your bequest
to our address below.
Making a gift to The National Stroke Council whether
during your lifetime or through your will
-- is one of the most gratifying acts a person can perform. You know that your gift will
go to support an organization whose goals and ideals you share.