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Barrow Neurological Institute

Frequently Asked Questions

Barrow Stroke Center

Barrow Neurological Institute of St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona




If you think you may be suffering a stroke or TIA, CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY.

If one or more of the symptoms of stroke lasts from a few minutes to several hours and then disappears completely, the episode is called a transient ischemic attack (TIA). TIA is the single most important warning that a major stroke may occur.

  1. Does stroke occur more often in men or women?
  2. Does taking an aspirin a day help prevent stroke?
  3. Does it matter where a person receives treatment for a stroke?
  4. How urgently should stroke be treated?
  5. How do I know if I am at risk of having a stroke?
  1. Does stroke occur more often in men or women?
    • According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is more common in men than in women in most age groups. More men than women will have a stroke in a given year. However, more than half of total stroke deaths occur in women. At all ages, more women than men die of stroke. Use of birth control pills and pregnancy pose special stroke risks for women.
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  2. Does taking an aspirin a day help prevent stroke?
    • Yes. The FDA states that anywhere from 50 to 325 mg of aspirin per day reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack appreciably. Other more effective medications are available, although their cost is higher than that of aspirin.
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  3. Does it matter where a person receives treatment for a stroke?
    • Experience from all over the world indicates that outcome from stroke is improved when patients are cared for in "stroke centers." Recent publications report that the risk of death or a "negative outcome" is significantly reduced when treatment is provided by a stroke center.  

      See the CNN.com/health article, "Medical Experts urge 'stroke centers' for hospitals" (This website link is provided for your convenience only. Barrow Neurological Institute does not necessarily endorse the views expressed or the facts presented on the site, nor is responsible for the content on the site in any way.)
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  4. How urgently should stroke be treated?

    • The sooner the better. Brain cells die by the minute, which is why tPA (the clot-buster medication) must be given within 3 hours of stroke onset if it is to be of benefit. Stroke is a "9-1-1" emergency. If you think you may be suffering a stroke or TIA, CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY.

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  5. How do I know if I am at risk of having a stroke?
    • This document is for informational purposes only and is not offered as medical advice. For specific questions about strokes, stroke prevention or other medical issues, you should contact your physician.
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