Vioxx Increases Risk of Stroke What is a Stroke? A stroke occurs when there is a stoppage in blood flow to the brain. There are two different kinds of stroke. The most common type is an ischemic stroke, which is caused by a blood clot that blocks a blood vessel or artery in the brain. Less common is a hemorrhagic stroke, caused when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and spills blood into the surrounding tissue. Brain cells in the area begin to die, either because they stop getting the oxygen and nutrients they need to function, or they are killed by the rupture of the vessel and sudden spill of blood. The symptoms of stroke happen immediately: Numbness or weakness in the face, arms, or legs (especially on one side of the body) Confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding speech Vision disturbances in one or both eyes Dizziness, trouble walking, loss of balance or coordination Severe headache with no known cause If you or someone else has these symptoms, seek immediate medical assistance. The longer blood flow is cut off to the brain, the greater the potential for permanent damage. Source: (C) Copyright FDA - 2004. All rights reserved Find a Vioxx Lawyer Vioxx Resources Merck Merck Clarifies Number of Patients and Prescriptions for VIOXX Merck Announces Voluntary Worldwide Withdrawal of VIOXX Merck Vioxx U.S. Food and Drug Administration U.S. Food and Drug Administration Vioxx Center FDA Public Health Advisory on Vioxx FDA Vioxx Questions and Answers U.S. Food and Drug Administration