Strokes can happen at any time – regardless of age, gender or race – and are the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S., according to the CDC. In fact, approximately 795,000 Americans have a stroke each year. This May, celebrate National Stroke Awareness Month, and learn how strokes can be prevented and treated.
What Is Stroke?
Strokes happen when the blood supply to an area of the brain is reduced, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. In just minutes, brain cells can start to die. The person having a stroke may lose memory, muscle control and other abilities as a result. To help prevent further brain damage and complications, it’s absolutely critical to seek emergency medical services right away by calling 9-1-1.
Stroke Symptoms
During a stroke, a number of symptoms may arise. Confusion, slurred words and trouble understanding other people are all telltale signs of a stroke. You may also notice a numbness or paralysis on one side of the face, on one arm and/or on one leg. Blurred vision, severe headache and difficulty walking are all indicative of stroke as well.
Think FAST
If someone you know shows signs of a stroke, act FAST. Remember these steps:
- F – Has one side of their face drooped?
- A – Can they lift both arms?
- S – Is their speech slurred?
- T – Time is critical. Call 9-1-1.
- After experiencing a stroke, time is of the essence. As minutes tick by without seeking treatment, the potential for disability and irreparable brain damage grows greater.
Stroke Prevention
Many people believe that strokes are unavoidable, when in reality, 80% of strokes can be prevented through healthy lifestyle changes. For example, one of the main things you can do to lower your stroke risk is to control high blood pressure, or hypertension. By exercising regularly, reducing your sodium intake and following a treatment plan laid out by your doctor, you can significantly diminish your risk of stroke. Other ways to prevent stroke include:
- Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in cholesterol and saturated fat
- Stop using tobacco
- Manage diabetes
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Do cardio exercises
Stroke Care at Carthage Area Hospital
Through the use of telemedicine, Carthage Area Hospital is able to provide Jefferson County patients with quality stroke care in our community hospital setting. In just minutes, we’re able to connect with neurologists at the Upstate Stroke Center to offer the best in stroke care. To learn more, give us a call at 315-493-1000. If this is a medical emergency, please dial 9-1-1.