According to the CDC, every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke and every 4 minutes someone dies, making it the fifth leading cause of death in the country. A stroke happens when a blood vessel that carries oxygen to the brain becomes blocked, which then causes brain cells to die. This can be caused by an artery that becomes blocked (ischemic stroke), a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke), or transient ischemic attack caused by a temporary clot. Someone might suffer a stroke for various factors, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, and diabetes. Some ways to prevent having a stroke are by having a healthy diet, exercising, avoiding drugs, and drinking alcohol in moderation.

The treatment for stroke depends on the type of stroke you suffered. If you suffered from an ischemic stroke, one of the treatments is an injection of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) which is given through a vein in the arm. For a hemorrhagic stroke, treatment can be surgery to repair blood vessels. Recovery and rehabilitation come next, which its main purpose is to help you recover as many functions possible to help you live an independent life. Some professionals that help with your recovery are neurologists, physiatrists, nurses, and physical therapists.

If you suffered a stroke and want a second opinion on the recovery treatment you are taking please visit SecondOpinions.com for your peace of mind.