These happen when blood vessels are blocked by a clot or become too narrow for the blood to get through to the brain. The reduced blood flow causes brain cells in the area to die from lack of oxygen. In a haemorrhagic stroke the blood vessel bursts leaking blood into the brain and causing damage. A stroke causes paralysis or weakness in one side of the body. Other effects may include loss of balance, distorted vision and speech, incontinence and difficulty in swallowing.
Partial recovery is usual, full recovery possible.
Although strokes normally occur in older people, they can happen to children. Inheritance patterns Not applicable Pre-natal diagnosis May be possible. The Association is a National Registered Charity No. 211015. We are a main source of information about rare disorders and are able to assist affected adults as well as children. The CaF Directory Online contains details of many medical conditions and also patient support groups.