Stroke Warning Signs
Stroke is a major cause of serious disability and even death. Brain damage can begin within minutes of a stroke, but it may take hours to notice symptoms since they are often overlooked.
The American Stoke Association urges everyone to know and recognize the warning signs of stroke:
- Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
- Sudden, severe headache with no known cause
If you or someone you're with displays any of these signs, don't delay! Call 911 immediately. Note the time symptoms first appears. A clot-bursting drug can sometimes be used within three hours of initial symptoms to reduce the effects of a certain type of stroke.
Reduce Stroke Risks
Some risk factors - age, past strokes and family history of strokes - can't be controlled, but many others can. Check out the risk assessment scorecard for a quick snapshot of your risks. Then, take charge to reduce your risks:
- Know and control your blood pressure.
- Ask your doctor to check for atrial fibrillation.
- If you smoke or use other forms of tobacco, stop!
- If you are diabetic, follow your doctor's recommendations carefully to control your diabetes.
- Lower the sodium (salt) and fat in your diet.
- Include exercise in your daily routine and maintain a healthy weight.
- Control high cholesterol.
Talk with your healthcare provider about your risk factors and personal goals for healthy living.