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May marks National Stroke Awareness Month, highlighting the symptoms of stroke, ways to reduce the risk and the importance of getting treatment quickly.
A stroke occurs when a clot blocks blood flow to part of the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. Without oxygen-rich blood, brain cells begin to die.
An ischemic stroke is caused by a clot, while a hemorrhagic stroke results from a rupture. A transient ischemic attack, or TIA, is a temporary blockage sometimes described as a warning stroke.
Approximately 800,000 people in the United States experience a stroke each year. Stroke is the nation’s fifth-leading cause of death and a leading cause of serious, long-term disability.
Although survivors of previous strokes and people with unmanaged atrial fibrillation or high blood pressure face elevated risks, a stroke can affect anyone at any age.
Women have additional risk factors, including pregnancy, preeclampsia and birth-control use, particularly when combined with smoking. One in five U.S. women ages 55 to 75 will have a stroke, and Black women have the highest stroke prevalence among women.
The acronym F.A.S.T. can help people recognize key warning signs:
- Face drooping
- Arm weakness
- Speech difficulty
- Time to call 911
Calling 911 immediately is critical because some stroke treatments must be administered within three hours after symptoms begin. Delays increase the likelihood of permanent brain damage, long-term disability or death.
People can lower their stroke risk by avoiding smoking, vaping and secondhand smoke; eating foods low in saturated fat, trans fat and sodium; limiting sugary drinks; exercising regularly; maintaining a healthy weight; and taking prescribed medications.
Other preventive steps include checking and managing blood pressure, getting adequate sleep, reducing stress and limiting alcohol to one drink per day for women and two for men. A health care professional can help develop a plan based on an individual’s risk factors.
When stroke symptoms appear, every minute matters. Recognizing the signs and seeking emergency treatment can improve the chances of survival and a stronger recovery.