STORY AT-A-GLANCE
- Stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery or blood vessel, cutting off blood flow to your brain. As a result, brain cells die and brain damage can occur. Without proper and timely treatment, a stroke can be lethal
- Estimates suggest 10% of all strokes occur in people under the age of 50, and 2.5% of strokes occur in those under the age of 20
- Studies have shown that, surprisingly, blocking inflammation after a stroke isn’t beneficial. Recent research demonstrates brain inflammation following a stroke actually plays a beneficial role in neuroplasticity and recovery of function
- It’s imperative to rapidly implement neurocognitive training after a stroke, as your brain circuits need the proper stimulus to reroute
- Education appears to play a role in stroke recovery by acting as a cognitive reserve against poststroke cognitive impairment. Getting the proper nutrition after a stroke is also crucial for optimal recovery