Learn about Stroke
What is a stroke: A stroke happens when blood supply to the brain is interrupted. Blood is carried to the brain by blood vessels called arteries. Blood contains oxygen and important nutrients for your brain cells. Blood may be interrupted or stop moving through an artery, because the artery is blocked (ischaemic stroke) or bursts (haemorrhagic stroke). When brain cells do not get enough oxygen or nutrients, they die. The area of brain damage is called a cerebral infarct.
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Lifestyle factors
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Medical factors
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Stroke risk factors that you cannot control
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Lifestyle factors
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Obesity or being overweight
- Poor diet
- Lack of exercise
- Alcohol
Medical factors
- Transient ishaemic attack (TIA)
- Irregular pulse (atrial fibrillation)
- Diabetes
- Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD)
Stroke risk factors that you cannot control
- Age
- Gender
- Family history
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Support and resources
Health Professionals
Stroke Survivors & Carers
Featured stories and updates
Ways to donate
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Make a single donation
Your gift today will help make life better for stroke survivors, their families and carers.
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Gifts in Wills
Including a gift to the Stroke Foundation in your Will can create a future where stroke can't take away the things we love.
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Fundraising and events
Start your own fundraiser or join an existing one to fight stroke.
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Corporate partnerships
Take the lead, receive the advantage. Give your company the charity edge.
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Our promise to you
The Registered Charity Tick identifies charities that are transparent, accountable, and meet the ACNC’s governance standards and reporting requirements.
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