Did you know that nearly 800,000 people in the U.S. will have a stroke this year? It is the fifth leading cause of death, and less than one in five Americans know all the symptoms for stroke. It is crucial for a stroke victim to get medical attention immediately; ideally within three hours from the first symptom in order to optimize recovery.
Know the Risk Factors
Many people are not aware of the risk factors associated with a stroke. These are just a few:
- Hypertension
- Lipids (blood fats)
- Poor Diet
- Smoking
- Stress
- Alcohol Intake
- Lack of Exercise
Know the Symptoms
Recognition of stroke symptoms leads to receiving medical attention faster and ultimately, a better outcome. It is important to remember that strokes can happen to anyone, at any age, at any time. Watch for these sudden symptoms and B.E. F.A.S.T.
B – Balance: Trouble walking or holding steady, feeling dizzy.
E – Eyesight: Blurry vision, sudden loss of sight in one or both eyes.
F – Face: Face is drooping, particularly on one side.
A – Arms: Weakness or numbness in arms.
S – Speech: Confusion, trouble talking, slurred speech.
T – Time: If you observe any of the above symptoms, call 911 immediately.
Strokes are treatable, but you have to act quickly. Knowing all the signs of a stroke, how to prevent them, and how to help others can save a life!
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