A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die. Common symptoms include sudden numbness or weakness, visual changes, severe headaches, confusion, trouble talking, or loss of balance. If someone experiences stroke symptoms, it is crucial to act fast and call 911 right away, as rapid medical intervention can save lives and reduce disability. Preventing strokes involves not smoking, controlling blood pressure, eating a healthy diet, regular health exams, and staying active.

1. STROKE
WHAT IS IT ?
WHAT TO DO?
Patricia Patton

2. WHAT HAPPENS IN A
STROKE?
Blood flow is cut off from part of the
brain
by bleeding or a blood
clot
Brain cells in that area die
Function controlled by the dead brain
cells is lost

3. SYMPTOMS
Sudden
numbness or
weakness
Sudden
visual
changes
Sudden
severe
headache
Sudden
confusion
trouble talking
Sudden loss
of balance or
coordination

5. •When you notice symptoms
•Act Fast
•Call 911

6. RAPID INTERVENTION SAVES
LIVES AND REDUCES LEVELS
OF DISABILITY

7. STROKE PREVENTION
Don’t
smoke
Control Blood
Pressure
Eat
Healthy
Have annual
health exams
Stay
Active

8. REFERENCE
National Stroke Association. (2016). Hope After Stroke.
Retrieved from http://www.stroke.org/understand-
stroke/preventing-stroke/medical-risk-factors.