On average, 800,000 people suffer a stroke each year. A stroke occurs when blood flow in the brain is disrupted by a blockage or bleeding. The effects of stroke vary for several reasons, and not all strokes have the same symptoms. The severity of a stroke is based on the type, size, location and number of previous strokes.

The brain is very complex. Each part of the brain has a certain function or ability. When an area of the brain is damaged from a stroke, the part of the body it controls may lose normal function and potentially result in a long-term disability.

Strokes are a medical emergency and need to be evaluated as soon as possible because neurons are located in our brain and are responsible for communication between the brain and the body. For every minute a stroke goes untreated, an average of 1.9 million neurons die. This means that literally every minute counts when a person is experiencing a stroke.

So, what can we do about it? Studies show that 80% of all strokes are preventable. We can lessen our chances of having a stroke by managing our modifiable risk factors. These factors include things like high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, high cholesterol, tobacco use, obesity, sleep apnea, heavy alcohol consumption and lack of physical activity.

“Making a plan with your healthcare provider about how to control your specific risk factors for stroke is such an important thing to do for your future,” said Aultman Stroke Coordinator Andrea Lloyd, RN, BSN, SCRN. “I highly recommend that being your first step.”

Lloyd also recommends getting familiar with the common signs and symptoms of stroke:

• Weakness on one side of the body.
• Trouble speaking or understanding speech.
• Vision changes.
• Loss of or decreased sensation on one side of the body.
• Sudden dizziness.
• Trouble walking or loss of balance while walking.

She suggested memorizing the acronym BE FAST, an easy way to remember the symptoms. It also has dual meaning because once a stroke is noticed, it is important to BE FAST and call 911 immediately.

• B is for balance – is there a sudden loss of balance or coordination?
• E is for eyes – is the person having double vision or vision loss?
• F is for face – is one side of the face drooping?
• A is for arm – is one arm weaker than the other?
• S is for speech – is the person experiencing slurred speech or difficulty getting words out?
• T is for time – if these symptoms are present, it’s time to act! Call 911 immediately!

Speak to your doctor about controlling your risk factors for stroke, and seek medical attention immediately if you feel you are having a stroke. Learn more at www.heart.org.

Sources: The Staywell Company, Andrea Lloyd, RN, BSN, SCRN, Aultman stroke coordinator