Stroke

  • Reviewed by Andrew E. Budson, MD, Contributor; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing

Blood vessels deliver oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Without them, brain cells die. A stroke occurs when blood flow to one or more parts of the brain is limited. After a stroke, a person might be unable to move, speak, think, recognize people, or see. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States.

Time is of the essence when treating a stroke. Delaying treatment can lead to more severe and potentially permanent neurological damage. That’s why it’s important to quickly recognize signs of a stroke and immediately call for help.

A mature man does physical therapy using balance bars with the assistance of a physical therapist standing by his side.

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