We often hear of strokes and the consequences of those who suffer one.  We hear about the warning signs of stroke and how important it is to recognize symptoms and get quick medical care.  We do not often hear about strokes in children and what to do if a child exhibits symptoms of a stroke.

In fact strokes can happen to people of any age. From very young children to those in their teens the potential and threat of suffering a stroke does exist.  The same symptoms that are seen in adults can also be seen in children.  In particular weakness, altered mental state and headache surface as prime symptoms in children.

Fast diagnosis and response are vital in preventing or reducing the effects of a stroke.  According to new research in the American Heart Association journal Stroke, Lori Jordan, M.D., Ph.D. from Monroe Caddell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville, Tennessee, "Rapid evaluation and appropriate testing is critical.  Just as there are rapid response processes for adults with a possible stroke, there should be a rapid response process for children with a possible stroke that includes expedited evaluation and imaging  or rapid transfer to a medical center with pediatric stroke expertise".

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