Stroke

Course overview

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of serious, long-term disability. Every year 700,000 people suffer a stroke and approximately 500,000 of these are first events. Worldwide, approximately 15 million people are affected by stroke annually. The global mortality rate is estimated at 5 million and another 5 million are left with a permanent disability as a result of stroke. Without a doubt, this places a significant burden on families, communities and the health care system. This course describes the pathophysiology of stroke, discusses the major risk factors for stroke, identifies lifestyle and dietary changes for prevention of stroke, describes current treatments and therapies and explains the role of rehabilitation to improve outcomes. This course describes the modifiable and/or treatable risk factors for stroke as obesity, physical inactivity, diabetes, hypertension, tobacco abuse, atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease, hyperlipidemia, excessive alcohol consumption, cerebral aneurysms, and substance abuse of illegal drugs, such as amphetamines. Suggestions are given for helping people modify certain risk factors with therapeutic lifestyle changes. This course offers detailed review of treatment options and modalities, including surgery, medication, and therapeutic interventions. It gives the current treatment options and recommendations from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Treatments for ischemic as well as hemorrhagic stroke are covered. Treatment for children with stroke is also covered.