May is National Stroke Awareness Month

May is National Stroke Awareness Month.  Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability in America.  Although this is the case, many Americans are not fully informed as to what a stroke is, what the warning signs are, and what can be done to prevent a stroke.

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is blocked by a clot or a blood vessel bursts in the brain.  A “mini stroke” occurs when the blood supply to the brain is temporarily blocked by a clot.  Not only is stroke the leading cause of disability in Americans, it is also the 4^th leading cause of death.

Patients who are treated within three hours of the onset of stroke symptoms tend to have a better recovery.  If someone is presenting with symptoms of a stroke, seek help immediately.  The following are the five most common symptoms of stroke:

• Sudden numbness or weakness of the face or extremity
• Sudden trouble speaking or understanding others
• Sudden limitation in vision
• Sudden dizziness or loss of balance
• Sudden severe headache

An easy way to remember stroke symptoms and what to do is to learn F.A.S.T.  If a person’s Face droops on one side, Arms are weakened, or Speech is slurred, it is Time to call 9-1-1.  Long term disability can be significantly reduced if you get medical care F.A.S.T.

The National Stroke Association states that up to 80% of stokes can be prevented by controlling high blood pressure, managing diabetes, and controlling high cholesterol.  Additionally, to further reduce stroke risk, you should not smoke, limit alcohol use, be physically active and maintain a healthy weight.

Take the time to educate those you love.  For additional information, please visit www.cdc.gov, www.strokeassociation.org, or www.stroke.org.

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This blog should be used for informational purposes only.  It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice.  If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney in your community who can assess the specifics of your situation.