Know the signs of stroke!
Take some time to educate yourself about signs, symptoms, and treatment for stroke. Your immediate action can have a lasting impact!
What is a stroke?
A stroke is said to have happened when a person quickly develops signs and symptoms of disturbance of part of brain function due to a problem with the brain’s blood supply. The most common type of stroke is called an ischemic stroke, and this occurs when there is an interruption to blood flow to the brain due to a blockage such as a blood clot. Such a blood clot usually results from rupture of cholesterol plaques in the blood vessels, or a clot that travels in the bloodstream as may occur in people with atrial fibrillation. A less common type is a hemorrhagic stroke caused by weakened blood vessels like aneurysms that may rupture leading to bleeding into the surrounding brain tissue.
Can it be treated?
The best line of defense against a stroke is identifying and treating risk factors before a stroke occurs. However, if a stroke occurs, damage to brain tissue can be reduced if care is rendered as soon as possible. Specialist doctors will deliver care based on the type of stroke suffered and how quickly a patient gets to the hospital. After a stroke, preventive treatments for future stroke events may include medications (such as blood thinners and cholesterol lowering medications), physical, occupational and speech therapy, depending on the extent of the stroke.
What are the typical signs and symptoms of a stroke?
The American Stroke Association has encouraged learning and sharing the F.A.S.T warning signs, as this may save a life from stroke:
F.A.S.T warning signs:
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F: Face drooping
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A: Arm weakness
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S: Speech difficulty
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T: Time to call 911!
What are some risk factors for stroke?
Risk factors include:
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High blood pressure
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Smoking
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High cholesterol
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Diabetes
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Heart disease such as atrial fibrillation
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Prior stroke or prior mini stroke (Transient ischemic attack)
BHEALTHY CARE RESOURCES
The following benefits are available to help you reduce the chances of a stroke.
Get Periodic Health Evaluations
If you’re living with risk factors for stroke, or have had a stroke before, periodic health evaluations by your primary care provider (PCP), neurologist or cardiologist will reduce your risk. Your PCP can detect, treat, and monitor risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and heart disease. Do you want to make an appointment with a doctor? Click here to connect to our navigation team!
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise can help lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. Check out BHealthy Wellness to see how you can reduce your medical insurance premiums by exercising!
Quit Smoking
Smoking is a potent risk factor for stroke. Reach out to the The Institute for Prevention and Recovery (IFPR) for resources on kicking the habit for good.
