When an artery that carries blood to the brain is blocked or breaks, it damages the brain. Strokes can be mild, severe or even fatal. Most people who have strokes are 60 or older, but younger people can also have strokes. In the past few years, we've learned some ways to prevent stroke. You and your doctor can work together to lower your risk of stroke.
Strokes tend to occur in older people.
They happen more often in men than in women. They also happen more often in blacks than in whites. These are risk factors that we can't change. If you have any of these conditions, talk with your doctor about treatments that can lower your risk of stroke. During this time, you may not be able to talk, or your words may come out slurred and wrong.