Recognizing A Stroke Can Save Your Life

Did you know that May is National Stroke Awareness Month? We’re sharing some facts and need to know information about what a stroke looks like, how to lower your chances of having one, and what the risks are.

What is a stroke

The American Stroke Association defines a stroke as “a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain” and can also be referred to as a brain attack. This happens when blood vessels containing nutrients and oxygen are blocked by a burst or clots and forbid access to the brain.

Rapid access to medical attention and treatment with medications can minimize brain damage and lead to a successful recovery. Other treatments focus on reducing complications and preventing additional or future strokes.

Know all the facts

• Strokes are the fifth leading cause of death in the nation and a leading cause of severe disability
• A stroke can happen to anyone at any age, gender, and ethnicity
• There are two different types of strokes: ischemic and hemorrhagic
• More than 795,00 people have a stroke each year in the United States
• 80 percent of all strokes are preventable according to the American Heart Association

You can lower your chances of having a stroke by managing your blood pressure, reducing your blood sugar, controlling cholesterol, being active, eating healthy, and not smoking—just to name a few.

Be aware of the warning signs of a stroke:

• Numbness or weakness of face or limbs especially on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking or trouble understanding speech
• Trouble seeing or walking
• Severe headache with no known cause

F.A.S.T is an easy acronym to help you remember the signs and symptoms of a stroke.

Face.

Arms.

Speech.

Time to call 9-1-1.

If you’re experiencing any of the related symptoms, call 911 immediately. It is important to seek medical attention right away to improve your chances of successful treatment and recovery.

If you or a loved one experience any signs of a stroke, we’re here to help. Our team of highly-trained physicians are equipped to treat any type of medical emergency, and we stay open 24/7, 365 days a year.

For more information, resources, or helpful tips, visit the American Stroke Association website. Be sure to share this article to help spread the word for National Stroke Awareness Month!

Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, Topeka ER & Hospital and Nutex Health state no content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinicians.