WHAT IS A STROKE?

Stroke is the sudden loss of brain function that is caused when blood flow to the brain is
interrupted. Different parts of your brain control what you think, sense, and say. The effects
of stroke depend on which part of the brain is damaged and how much damage occurs.

One-third of stroke survivors are under the age of 65 years. Stroke is the fourth leading cause
of death in Canada. Approximately 60% of stroke survivors have a disability. Brain damage
from stroke radically changes the lives of stroke survivors and their families.

By learning about stroke prevention, stroke warning signs, and what to do if you have or see
a stroke, you can reduce the physical, financial and emotional impact of stroke.

ETIOLOGY
There are over 21,000 people who experience a stroke each year in Ontario and close to
120,000 people are living with stroke. Approximately, 25% of stroke survivors are people
under the age of 65 and 10% are people under the age of 50 and in the prime of their working
life.

WHAT IS A TIA?
TIA is short for transient ischemic attack. Transient means short-term and ischemic means a
lack of blood supply. A transient ischemic attack is a short-term lack of blood supply to the
brain and is often called a “mini-stroke.” A TIA is a serious warning sign of an increased risk
of stroke. Once you have had a TIA, you are also at greater risk of future TIAs.

Most TIAs last only a short time – from 30 seconds to 10 minutes – but can last as long as 24
hours.

WHY IS REHABILITATION SO IMPORTANT?

Rehabilitation — what’s right for me?

Research shows that recovery continues for some time after a stroke. People generally make
the most progress in the first 3 months after a stroke. However, recovery may continue for up
to 3 years. How much therapy and the type of therapy required depends on each person’s
needs. As long as you continue to improve, you should continue with therapy. Once
discharged from a formal program, there are many community services that can help to
maintain your function and independence, such as stroke specific adult day programs
and community based exercise programs.

http://yearofthebrain2015.com/stroke/