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Coronary Artery Disease Risk Assessment
A stroke, also called a “brain attack,” is an interruption of the blood supply to any part of the brain. It happens when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted because a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or bursts open.
If blood flow is stopped for longer than a few seconds, the brain cannot get blood and oxygen. Brain cells can die, causing permanent damage. While there are two classifications of stroke both have similar risk factors and symptoms.
Risk factors include: high blood pressure, diabetes, family history, heart disease, high cholesterol, head injuries, drugs and alcohol, aging and certain medications (including birth control under some circumstances).
The symptoms of stroke depend on what part of the brain is damaged. In some cases, a person may not even be aware that he or she has had a stroke. Symptoms usually develop suddenly and without warning, or they may occur on and off for the first day or two. Symptoms are usually most severe when the stroke first happens, but they may slowly get worse.
Aspirin therapy (81mg a day or 100mg every other day) is recommended for stroke prevention in women under 65 as long as the benefits outweigh the risks.
It should be considered for women over age 65 only if their blood pressure is controlled and the benefit is greater than the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and brain hemorrhage. Ask your doctor if aspirin is right for you.
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