World Stroke Day

What You Need To Know About World Stroke Day

WORLD STROKE DAY, established by the World Stroke Organization in 2006, is observed worldwide on October 29 to underscore the serious nature and high rates of stroke, raise awareness of the prevention and treatment of the condition, and ensure better care and support for survivors.

About 800,000 people in the United States Have a stroke every year. Stroke is the leading preventable cause of disability, and the number 5 cause of death in the United States, claiming 130,000 lives per year. Acting FAST at the first sign of a stroke can help save a life.

How much do you know about stroke? Find out by taking our online quiz here.

What is a stroke?

Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Without oxygen-rich blood, brain cells die.

• Ischemic strokes (87% of strokes) are caused when a clot or a mass blocks a blood vessel, cutting off blood flow to a part of the brain.
• TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack) is a temporary blockage to the brain that resolves on its own.

Common signs and symptoms of a stroke:

Each individual may experience symptoms differently, but the following are the most common stroke symptoms. Call 911 immediately if any of the symptoms are present. Treatment is most effective when started immediately.

Stroke symptoms may be sudden and include:

• Weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Confusion or difficulty speaking or understanding
• Problems with vision, such as dimness or loss of vision in one or both eyes
• Dizziness or problems with balance or coordination
• Problems with movement or walking
• Loss of consciousness or seizure
• Severe headaches with no other known cause, especially if sudden onset

Click here to read more from Touro’s online health library.

Kodi Craft, RN, BSN, MSHCM, is a Unit Director for Touro’s ICU department. Mr. Craft graduated with a BSN from Southern University in Baton Rouge, and then went on to obtain a Master’s of Science in Health Care Management from the University of New Orleans. Kodi began his nursing career as a registered nurse in the Intensive care Unit at Emory University Hospital where he worked in the Neurosurgical ICU. He then went on to work in ICU for three other institutions as a staff or charge nurse before joining Touro in 2007. Since joining Touro Kodi has worked as a staff nurse, charge nurse and Clinical Supervisor in ICU. He has also served as a preceptor for his unit and worked closely with Lela Blanco in many capacities including management activities. Kodi most recently worked on the development of an orientation and preceptor program for new grads in the Intensive care unit.