Regular screenings with your Amberwell primary care provider can help monitor your risk of suffering a stroke. Your provider will evaluate your blood pressure, weight, lifestyle, and health history to assess health concerns that put you at risk of having a stroke. Your provider will then determine treatments, recommend lifestyle changes, and prescribe medication to help you stay healthy and reduce your stroke risk.
Strokes are sudden and serious
Nearly every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke. Strokes happen fast. Brain cells die in minutes. People suffer paralysis, permanent brain loss, death, or a long recovery that impacts the rest of their lives. Understanding the signs of stroke can help you provide important help when it’s needed most.
Health Risks of Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is stopped or reduced, preventing brain tissue from receiving oxygen and nutrients. High blood pressure is the biggest risk factor that causes strokes. Others include obesity, tobacco use, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, having had a previous stroke, or experiencing a transient ischaemic attack (TIA)–a mini stroke that causes a clot on the brain and resolves itself within twenty-four hours.
How do you know if you, or someone else, is having a stroke?
Symptoms of stroke include:
- confusion
- numbness
- paralysis
- headache with vomiting
- vision issues
- a metallic taste in the mouth
- loss of balance
- difficulty swallowing
Take these signs seriously and seek help immediately.
If you think someone is having a stroke act F.A.S.T.:
- Face—ask them to smile. Does one side appear to be drooping?
- Arms—ask them to raise both arms. Is one drifting lower?
- Speech—ask them to talk. Are they slurring their words or unable to speak?
- Time—if you observe symptoms, call 911 immediately. Every minute counts.
Spread the word
Understanding strokes can help you protect yourself and others. Spread awareness about symptoms and remember: F.A.S.T. action can minimize brain injury, maximize recovery—and save lives.
