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A reduction of blood flow to the brain for even a short period of time can be disastrous and is the primary cause of a stroke. A stroke has the same relationship to the brain as a heart attack does to the heart. Both result from a blockage in a blood vessel that interrupts the supply of oxygen to cells, resulting in the death of vital tissue. |
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Need help finding
a doctor for a loved one? Call St. Luke's Physician Referral at
832-355-DOCS or
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Click on the links below to find a St. Luke's neurologist or neurosurgeon.
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For more information about St. Luke's online physician referral service, click here.
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St. Luke's Main
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832-355-1000
Email
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International Services
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832-355-3350
Email
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Physician Referral
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832-355-DOCS or 800-872-9355
Online Form
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Risk Factors
Strokes affect about 750,000 people every year, and the incidence appears to be increasing. In general, people with stroke are likely to have more than one risk factor, such as age, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, or a smoking habit.
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Prevention
Some key lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of stroke, especially diet and exercise. Individuals at high risk for a first of second stroke may consider anti-clotting drugs or surgery.
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Symptoms
People at risk and partners or caretakers of people at risk for stroke should be aware of the general symptoms, and the stroke victim should get to the hospital as soon as possible after these warning signs appear.
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Diagnosis
In people who have had Transient Ischemic Attacks or small strokes, it is important to determine the source of these attacks in order to prevent a major stroke. Medical staff will frequently perform a complete blood count, a chest x-ray, or an electrocardiogram.
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Treatment Options
Until recently, the treatment of stroke was restricted to basic life support at the time of the stroke and rehabilitation later. Now, however, treatments are being used that are proving to be very beneficial when administered as soon as possible after the onset of the stroke. It is critical then to get to the hospital and be diagnosed as soon as possible. There are drugs to treat stroke patients as well as surgical options.
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