Are You at Risk for Stroke?
               Take the test and find out.

A stroke (cerebrovascular accident or CVA) is the disruption of the blood supply to an area of the brain.  This can happen when an artery in the brain becomes blocked, as with a clot, or when it bursts and bleeds.  This area of the brain now is deprived of nutrition, becomes damaged, and dies.  The parts of the body that are controlled by this part of the brain can no longer function properly.  The sooner treatment is begun; the better the chances are for recovery.  Click here for information about the Halifax Comprehensive Stroke Center.

Symptoms of a stroke include:
Ø      Sudden numbness or weakness of an arm, leg or side of the face.
Ø      Sudden inability to speak or understand speech.
Ø      Sudden visual disturbances.
Ø      Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
Ø      Sudden trouble walking, dizziness or loss of balance.
 
If you experience any of the above symptoms, call 911 immediately.

Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA's) are often called "mini strokes".  The symptoms are similar to a stroke but disappear within minutes to hours.  TIA's are warnings that a stroke may soon happen and should be treated immediately. 

                              Questions
  Answer these free and confidential questions to see if you are at risk.

Please mark the answers to the questions as they apply to you.

Family History:
There is no family history of stroke or TIA.
A parent, brother or sister has had a stroke or TIA.

Personal History:
I have never had a stroke or TIA.
I have had a stroke or TIA.

High Blood Pressure:
My blood pressure is normal.
I have documented high blood pressure (>140/90) that is being treated.
I have documented high blood pressure (>140/90) that is NOT being treated.
I don't know what my blood pressure is.

Diabetes:
I do not have diabetes.
I have diabetes that is controlled by diet, pills or insulin.
I have diabetes and can not keep it under control.

Hyperlipidemia:
My cholesterol and triglycerides are normal.
My cholesterol and/or triglycerides are elevated.
I don't know what my cholesterol or triglyceride levels are.

Atrial Fibrillation/Flutter:
I have no history of atrial fibrillation/flutter.
I have atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter and take coumadin 
    or other anticoagulant.
I have atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter and do NOT take
    coumadin or other anticoagulant.

Smoking:
I don't smoke cigars, pipes or cigarettes.
I smoke <20 cigarettes/day.
I smoke >20 cigarettes/day.
I smoke cigars or a pipe.

Alcohol Consumption:
I don't drink any alcohol.
My alcohol consumption is low to moderate.
     (No more than 2 drinks/day)
My alcohol consumption is heavy.
     (More than 2 drinks/day)

Activity Level:
I never exercise.
I exercise 1-2 times/week.
I exercise 3 or more times/week.

Other: (Check All That Apply)
I have been diagnosed with heart valve problems.
I have a history of heart valve replacement.
I take estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) or birth control pills.
I am 20 pounds or more over my ideal body weight.
I have polycythemia.
I have circulation or blood problems.
I use cocaine.

*Please note that self diagnostic tools or general information may be a helpful part of preventive care, but are in no way a substitute for regular physical examinations and good communication with a physician of your choice. If you need help contacting a physician, our Health Line will be happy to assist.