Stroke

The term apoplexy has traditionally been used to refer to a sudden interruption of circulation or bleeding in an organ, especially in the brain, which corresponds to what is now known as a stroke. It causes a sudden change in the function of the affected organ.

Warning signs:

• Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg, almost always on one side
• Difficulty speaking or understanding
• Loss of balance or a severe, sudden headache

When to seek care? With these signs, care must be sought immediately, since time is critical.

Who treats it? In cases that require surgical evaluation of the brain or its vessels, the neurosurgeon steps in. Recognizing the signs in time and requesting urgent evaluation makes a big difference.