What is stroke?
A stroke happens when blood stops flowing to any part of your brain, damaging brain cells. The effects of a stroke depend on the part of the brain that was damaged and the amount of damage done.
Stroke
Signs of a stroke
Stroke is a medical emergency. If you or someone with you is experiencing these signs, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Know what to do
How is stroke treated?
Your treatment will depend on the type of stroke you have, how serious it was, your age and general health, and how soon you arrive at the hospital.
Are you a health care provider?
See our education and resources for professionals
Life after stroke
Stroke affects each person differently. Learn about the changes you might experience after a stroke, and get tips to help you manage the challenges and find your new normal.
Join our Heart and Stroke community of survivors.
Risk & prevention
Nine in ten Canadians have at least one risk factor for stroke. The good news? Lifestyle changes can dramatically lower your risk. Read more
Lifestyle risk factors
Many stroke risk factors are within your power to control. Find out what these are and learn steps to help lower your risk.
See lifestyle risk factors
Condition risk factors
Some medical conditions increase the risk of stroke. Learn how to manage these conditions and help lower your risk with healthy habits.
See condition risk factors
Risk factors you cannot change
While there are some risk factors for stroke you can do something about, there are others that you cannot control.
See risk factors you cannot change
Women's unique risk factors
While most risk factors are the same for women and men, it’s important to know women's unique stroke risk factors and signs.
See women’s unique risks
