Americans suffer as many strokes as they do heart attacks each year. Yet, the symptoms of a stroke and the importance of immediate medical attention are far less understood.
May is Stroke Awareness Month – a time to learn about both the risk factors and warning signs because if you or a loved one is having a stroke, every second counts.
Dr. Arvind Ahuja has been diagnosing and treating stroke patients for more than 20 years in southeastern Wisconsin. He is specially trained in both the treatment of people who are suffering a stroke as well as identifying those at greatest risk. His experience and dedication to patient care can have a dramatic effect on positive outcomes.
Every Second Counts – Call 9-1-1 If You Suspect a Stroke
A stroke occurs when part of the brain is deprived of oxygen, often due to a blood clot. Clots can develop in blood vessels anywhere in the body, and if they break off they can travel throughout the bloodstream and get lodged in a smaller vessel – such as the brain.
Symptoms of a stroke include:
- Numbness or weakness affecting one side of the body
- Facial drooping
- Difficulty speaking
- Confusion
- Severe headache
There are other causes of stroke, but the result is the same: loss of function due to the brain being deprived of oxygen. In general, the larger the blood clot, the larger the amount of brain that is damaged and the more severe the symptoms.
Know the Risk Factors
High Blood Pressure
Smoking
Heart Disease
Obesity / Poor Diet
Age / Gender
Family History of Stroke
A stroke is a medical emergency, and immediate treatment is crucial. The longer the brain is deprived of oxygen, the more severe the loss of function and the more difficult it is to recover.
If caught early, certain medications can be used to dissolve, break up or remove the blockage. As an experienced neurosurgeon, Dr. Ahuja also performs innovative surgical procedures to identify and remove life-threatening clots in order to restore blood flow to the brain.
By raising awareness and sharing knowledge, Neurosurgery and Endovascular Associates hopes to educate people about the risk factors associated with a stroke and understand the warning signs early so you can receive immediate care.
