Caregivers Resources
This support group for stroke survivors and their caregivers meets the second Tuesday of every month through May. For information call Joan Haines at 860-529-2281.
What is a stroke?
Stroke is the No. 3 cause of death and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in America. It occurs when a blood vessel bringing blood and oxygen to the brain gets blocked or ruptures and brain cells don’t get the flow of blood that they need. Deprived of oxygen, nerve cells can’t function and die within minutes. And when nerve cells don’t function, the part of the body they control can’t function either. The devastating effects of stroke are often permanent because dead brain cells can’t be replaced.
What is a TIA?
TIA, or transient ischemic (TRAN-see-ynt is-KE-mik) attack, is a “mini stroke” that occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery for a short time. The symptoms of a TIA are the same as those of a stroke, but they usually last only a few minutes. About 15 percent of strokes are preceded by TIAs, so don’t ignore a TIA. Call 9-1-1 or seek emergency medical attention immediately!