Stroke is a medical emergency that can happen anytime, anywhere. While risk of stroke increases with age, anyone can have a stroke. In the United States, a stroke occurs every 40 seconds.
Almost 800,000 strokes occur nationwide each year. Strokes happen when blood flow to the brain is stopped in some way, and brain cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients.
Everyone should know the signs of stroke. It’s so important to get medical help as quickly as possible. BE FAST is an easy way to remember: B – Sudden BALANCE loss E – Sudden EYESIGHT loss F – FACE drooping A – ARM weakness S – SPEECH difficulty T – TIME to call 911 Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body, is a sign of stroke. Confusion and sudden severe headache are other symptoms.
Stroke may be treated with tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) medications, also known as “clot buster” drugs. An interventional neuroendovascular procedure may be possible, in which tiny equipment is guided through microcatheters placed in blood vessels to open a blocked artery or repair an abnormality. But this lifesaving, brainsaving treatment can’t take place if you don’t get emergency help in a timely way.
Prevention is the best medicine, and up to 80% of strokes are preventable.
People tend to think that stroke is something that happens to senior citizens. Yet the CDC reports that strokes are happening at younger ages. There’s been an uptick in stroke hospitalizations among people ages 18-64 over the past 15 years. One reason is a corresponding increase in risk factors including obesity, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol and diabetes.
Follow these health habits to lower your risk: • Get your blood pressure checked, and make sure your blood pressure is under control
• Eat a healthy diet that’s low in fat and high in fiber, fruits and vegetables.
• Be active – 30 minutes of activity five days a week is what’s recommended, and it can be as simple as a daily walk.
• If you have diabetes, maintain good control and take medications as recommended.
• Manage any other chronic conditions carefully with your care team, including high cholesterol.
• Stop smoking or vaping.
• If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
The best way to stay on top of risk factors and preventive measures is a yearly checkup with a primary care provider.