Heart & Stroke Facts

A stroke is often called a "brain attack" because, like a heart attack, it is caused by insufficient blood flow, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While the heart and brain are two very different organs, heart conditions can affect your chances of having a stroke. By taking care of your heart, you can prevent this life-threatening condition.

Types

• According to the American Heart Association, heart attacks are the No. 1 cause of death in the U.S., while stroke is the third. The World Health Organization classifies stroke as a type of cardiovascular disease.

  A stroke occurs either when blood flow to the brain is blocked in one area or a blood vessel around the brain bursts. The three main types of stroke are ischemic, hemorrhagic and transient ischemic attacks. Ischemic strokes are the most common types of stroke and are caused by plaque buildup that blocks the flow of blood through an artery. Plaque is composed of cholesterol and other fatty-like substances. Blood vessel bursts near the brain are called hemorrhagic strokes. Transient ischemic attacks are often called "mini-strokes" because symptoms clear up after 24 hours and the attacks leave no lasting effects. However, an attack can be a precursor to a flow-blown stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Symptoms

• Most strokes occur in people over the age of 65. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control, people of any age can experience a stroke.

  Stroke warning signs from the American Heart Association include:
  -Sudden numbness and weakness, especially on one side of the body
  -Sudden confusion as well as difficulty speaking and understanding
  -Sudden trouble seeing
  -Sudden loss of coordination, dizziness and trouble walking
  -Sudden severe headaches
  One or more of these signs may occur very suddenly if a person is experiencing a stroke.

Risk Factors

• The risk factors for stroke and heart disease are interrelated. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control, those who have heart disease are at a higher risk for stroke. This is because heart disease causes hardened arteries, plaque buildup and blood clots, all of which can lead to a stroke. Other risk factors that correspond with both heart disease and stroke include the following:

  -High blood pressure
  -High cholesterol
  -Tobacco use
  -Diabetes
  -Alcohol use
  -Heredity

Treatment

• Strokes caused by blocked blood flow can be treated by medications that break down blood clots, according to the Centers of Disease Control. Those at risk for a stroke can take prescription medications that prevent blood clots from forming. Surgeries and catheter procedures can also help prevent and treat stroke.

Effects

• A stroke can greatly affect your normal routine. A stroke may cause paralysis or limited use of one side of the body. Strokes can also limit your ability to learn and think, speak and express emotions, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Those who experience one stroke often run the risk of experiencing another.

Prevention

• There are many things you can do to take care of your heart and prevent a stroke. If you have high blood pressure and/or high cholesterol, you should take steps to bring them down to healthy levels. Those who are overweight should include more fruits, vegetables and low-fat foods in their diet. Tobacco users should quit smoking, and those who drink alcohol should do so in moderation. People with diabetes should keep their blood sugar levels under control. Those without high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes should do what they can to prevent these conditions. Be sure to get regular exercise. Also, those who have heart conditions, such as atrial fibrillation, should see a doctor for treatment. A healthy heart means healthier arteries and less chance of stroke.