Platelets in the blood sticking together and forming clots are what typically causes
a stroke. A stroke happens when a clot reduces or blocks the flow of blood through
an artery supplying blood to the brain. Knowing how a stroke develops is an important
part of helping you reduce your risk of a future stroke or heart attack.
High cholesterol and high blood pressure are risk factors for stroke that need to
be managed. But they are not the direct cause of stroke.
- Compared to the general population, people who have had a stroke may have:
-
- Up to a 9 times greater risk of having another stroke
- Up to a 2 times greater risk of having a heart attack
What causes a stroke? Clots
- Healthy Artery - Normal arteries are smooth and flexible, allowing
oxygen-rich blood to flow through easily
- Plaque Formation and Narrowing of the Arteries - Deposits collect
within the artery walls, causing plaque that narrows the artery and reduces blood
flow
- Plaque Rupture - The plaque ruptures and platelets in your blood
may form clots
- Artery Blockage - A clot can reduce or block the flow of blood.
This may be what causes a stroke or a heart attack or heart-related chest pain (unstable
angina)
PLAVIX can help
Your doctor may decide that PLAVIX is right for you. PLAVIX is a prescription antiplatelet medicine
recommended for people who have suffered from a recent stroke or recent heart attack
or have been diagnosed with Peripheral Artery Disease, or P.A.D. (also known as
poor circulation in the legs).* PLAVIX helps keep platelets from sticking together
and forming clots. This enables your blood to flow more easily, reducing the risk
of future stroke and even heart attack.
PLAVIX has been the focus of extensive research, studies, and scientific findings.
For more than 11 years, doctors have written PLAVIX prescriptions to over 100 million people. PLAVIX is the #1 prescription antiplatelet medicine.*
Always talk to your doctor before taking aspirin or other medicines with PLAVIX,
especially if you’ve had a stroke.
Your recovery from a stroke may seem overwhelming at times. Recovery periods vary
from individual to individual, based on the severity of the event. But it’s important
to take everything one day at a time. And to take an active role in your recovery.
It’s important to know: Your risk never goes away. Even if you’re feeling better.
*IMS Health, NPA Plus™, TRxs. July 2009.
A message to caregivers
Stroke causes a huge impact on the family. The recovery process can be frustrating
and exhausting. Your loved one may be forced into the unfamiliar position of being
dependent on others for things they once did for themselves. Be as accepting and
forgiving as possible. Do everything you can to simplify daily living activities.
And don’t try to do it all by yourself. Seek help from family and friends. Support
groups for caregivers can be just as helpful as support groups for stroke survivors
themselves. You can find more information and resources for caregivers in
Caring for Others.
Going forward
By staying positive, getting the support you need, and learning as much as you can
about your condition, you’ll be better able to reduce your risk of a future heart
attack or stroke.
What to do next: Discover how PLAVIX helps protect
