Stroke Can Happen Without Warning: Know the Signs, Save a Life
A stroke can turn an ordinary day into a medical emergency within seconds. Someone may be talking, walking, cooking dinner, or spending time with family when suddenly their face begins to droop, their speech becomes difficult to understand, or one side of their body becomes weak.
Would you know what to do?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted by a blockage or when a blood vessel bleeds into or around the brain. Without adequate blood and oxygen, brain cells can become damaged. This is why recognizing stroke symptoms and getting emergency treatment quickly are so important.
Do not wait to see whether the symptoms improve. Even symptoms that disappear can be a warning of a transient ischemic attack (TIA), sometimes called a “mini-stroke,” and require prompt medical evaluation.
Stroke Prevention Starts Before the Emergency
Some stroke risk factors cannot be changed, including age and family history. However, many important risk factors can be managed.
High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, atrial fibrillation, physical inactivity, obesity, and an unhealthy diet can contribute to stroke risk. (BrainHealth.com)
Knowing your blood pressure, taking prescribed medications correctly, staying physically active, avoiding tobacco, choosing nutritious foods, and keeping regular healthcare appointments are important steps toward protecting your brain and cardiovascular health.
Be the Person Who Recognizes the Signs
Stroke education is not only for healthcare professionals or older adults. Children, teenagers, parents, grandparents, caregivers, teachers, and community members can learn to recognize stroke.
One informed person can make the difference between waiting and calling for help.
Learn the warning signs. Share them with your family. Teach your children. And if you suspect a stroke, call 911 immediately.
Learn More
For additional patient-friendly stroke education, visit Brain & Life, a publication of the American Academy of Neurology:
Brain & Life provides information about stroke symptoms, risk factors, treatment, recovery, and neurological health. (BrainHealth.com)
Remember: Recognize the signs. Respond quickly. Every minute matters.
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