In the US, stroke is the fourth leading cause of death. A stroke occurs when the blood flow to the brain is blocked or ruptured. Without nutrients and oxygen, brain cells stop working properly, and die. A person having a stroke requires immediate medical care– it’s a medical emergency. The longer a person goes without treatment, the more likely there will be permanent brain damage and/or other long term or permanent complications.
Risk factors for a stroke include having high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and/or cardiovascular disease. Cigarette smoking also increases the risk of stroke. Age is also a factor. People over age 55 are at a greater risk of having a stroke than younger people.
Stroke symptoms & signs:
-Speech & Cognition: Slurring words, confusion, trouble speaking and/or understanding what people are saying can all be indicative of a stroke.
– Numbness or paralysis: This may include facial paralysis, and paralysis or numbness in the face, legs or arms. Often it affects just one side of the body.
– Changes in vision: blurred or darkness vision, seeing double, or having trouble seeing out of one or both eyes.
-Loss of balance: Dizziness, loss of coordination, stumbling, etc
-Headaches: A headache that starts suddenly and is severe; may also experience nausea and vomiting, dizziness, or lethargy
See a doctor or head to the ER right away if you experience any of the above symptoms, or if someone near you is experiencing them. Don’t wait to see if your symptoms improve. With a stroke, the clock is ticking and every minute that passes can mean the damage is becoming worse and more likely to be permanent. Call 9-1-1 or emergency services right away.
An acronym to help remember what to do in case of a stroke is F-A-S-T:
FACE: When smiling, is one side of the face drooping?
ARMS: When raising both arms, does one arm drift downward, or is one arm weaker than the other?
SPEECH: Is speech slurred or jumbled?
TIME: Don’t wait, call 9-1-1 immediately if you notice any of the signs in yourself or someone near you.
“A simple set of questions for checking your heart health might also help predict your stroke risk, a new study suggests. The finding hints that even small improvements to your lifestyle might help prevent strokes,” According to News In Health.
Habits to prevent a stroke:
- Manage Blood Pressure– medication and lifestyle changes can help
- Control Cholesterol–Eat less high cholesterol food and saturated fats
- Reduce Blood Sugar–A healthy diet, exercise and weight loss can reduce blood sugar
- Get Active– Exercise regularly. Go for a walk, do yoga, garden, dance, swim, aerobics, etc. Just get moving regularly
- Eat Better– Eating more vegetables and fruits can lower the risk of stroke
- Lose Weight–Or maintain a healthy weight
- Stop Smoking–Talk to your doctor if you struggle to quit
A stroke is a medical emergency. It is scary to experience, and to witness happening to someone else. However, reviewing the signs of stroke and practicing the healthy habits to prevent stroke can significantly improve your chances of either avoiding a stroke, or recovering if you do experience one. Review the signs and symptoms regularly. Post the FAST steps on your fridge and share them with caretakers and loved ones. And start practicing healthy habits now. Be well as you proactively work to reduce your risk of stroke, and brain damage.
–Bethany Sellai is the Resident Blogger at Be Active Be Well. She lives well with her husband and three sons in the Central Valley.
DISCLAIMER: This article contains information that is intended to help the readers be better informed regarding exercise and health care. It is presented as general advice on health care. Always consult your doctor for your individual needs. Before beginning any new exercise program it is recommended that you seek medical advice from your personal physician. This article is not intended to be a substitute for the medical advice of a licensed physician. The reader should consult with their doctor in any matters relating to his/her health.
