Healthy Life

Information from Your Family Doctor How to Prevent a Stroke What is a stroke? A stroke happens when there is a problem with the blood supply to a part of the brain. The area of the brain that does not get enough blood becomes damaged. A stroke can happen when a blood clot blocks an artery in the brain. A stroke also can happen when the wall of an artery bursts. Depending on which part of the brain has poor blood supply, a stroke can be mild to severe. Here are some problems strokes can cause: • Problems with moving (including paralysis) • Problems with feeling • Loss of vision • Problems with thinking, understanding, or communicating (that is, problems with speaking, reading, or writing) • Changes in emotion or behavior

By eHow Health Editor Meningitis is an inflamation of the covering of the brain due to a viral, bacteria or fungi infection. It's can be lethal within hours - especially in kids. Familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms, especially if you have a child, and seek treatment as soon as possible if you suspect infection. Know that sudden fever, especially over 100 degrees F, with or without a preceeding illness, is cause for concern. If you or your child is ill with an earache, cold, flu or pneumonia, check for fever twice a day. Evaluate your eyesight. If you're experiencing photophobia, that is, looking at light causes you pain or prompts you to look away, you may have meningitis. Watch for vomiting, another symptom of meningitis. Evaluate your level of fatigue. Sometimes malaise and lethargy is a warning symptom of meningitis. Check your infant's fontanelle, or soft spot. If it's bulging or tight, call your pediatrician immediately. Listen to your child's cry...