A stroke (also referred to as cerebrovascular accident or CVA) is the sudden death of brain cells due to a problem with the blood supply. When blood flow to the brain is impaired, oxygen and important nutrients cannot be delivered. The result is abnormal brain function. Blood flow to the brain can be disrupted by either a blockage or rupture of an artery to the brain. There are many causes for a stroke.

If a stroke is caused by the blockage of an artery, the following things will happen:

• Clogging of arteries within the brain
• Hardening of the arteries leading to the brain
• Embolism to the brain from the heart or an artery

If a stroke is caused by the rupture of an artery, this will happen:

• Cerebral hemorrhage (bleeding within the brain substance)
• Subarachnoid hemorrhage (bleeding between the brain and the inside of the skull)

There are 5 major signs of a stroke:

1. Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body. The loss of voluntary movement and/or sensation may be complete or partial. There may also be an associated tingling sensation in the affected area.

2. Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding. Sometimes weakness in the muscles of the face can cause drooling.

3. Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes

4. Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination

5. Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

In the United States, a stroke is the third largest cause of death. The cost of a stroke is not just measured in the billions of dollars lost in work, hospitalization, and the care of survivors in nursing homes. The major cost or impact of a stroke is the loss of independence that occurs in 30% of the survivors. What was a self–sustaining and enjoyable lifestyle may lose most of its quality after a stroke and other family members can find themselves in a new role as caregivers.

If you have been wrongfully diagnosed with a stroke, it is important to seek legal advice, as you may have cause for a medical malpractice claim.