Education for Kids
What is a Stroke?
A stroke can also be called a "brain attack." Stroke happens when the blood flow to the brain stops or is interrupted. Without blood flow, brain cells do not get enough oxygen and can die. Stroke has the potential to cause:
- Paralysis - Complete or partial loss of movement
- Aphasia - Loss of speech
Act FAST - Signs of Stroke
According to the National Stroke Association, always remember to act FAST if you think someone is having a stroke (FAST graphic on left courtesy of Massachusetts Dept. of Public Health):
Helping Prevent Stroke
- Face - Does the face look uneven or drift down?
- Arm - Does one arm drift down?
- Speech - Does the person's speech sound strange? Ask the person to answer a simple question.
- Time - If you observe any of these signs, it is time to call 9-1-1. The quicker the person receives treatment, the better his/her chances are for recovery.
People can help reduce their chances of having a stroke by:
- Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet.
- Exercising regularly.
- Not smoking cigarettes or using drugs; drinking alcohol only in moderation.
- Having regular medical check-ups with the doctor.
- Actively managing conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and heart problems.
Test your Knowledge!
Take this short quiz by the National Stroke Association that will test your knowledge about stroke.
Below are some other resources from the National Stroke Association that will help you learn more about the brain and stroke.
Brainiac Kids Crossword Puzzle
Hip Hop Stroke Brain Map
Brainiac B's Word Find
Learn more at www.stroke.org/site/PageNavigator/BrainiacKids