Stroke affects one in four of us and is not just an elderly condition. Although the risk increases with age, strokes can occur at any age. Each year, more than 12 million people in the US have a stroke. Worldwide, 110 million people live with the after-effects of stroke, including severe physical disability, communication difficulties, changes in how they think and feel, loss of work and income, and declining social networks.
When someone has a stroke, every second that goes by without treatment is crucial. The faster treatment is started, the better the chances of minimizing brain damage and improving the likelihood of recovery.
During a stroke blood stops flowing to the brain which makes oxygen, glucose, and nutrients to brain cells. We need these brain cells to help us perform daily functions like eating, talking, movement, and thinking. If these cells stop functioning, it can profoundly affect our quality of life well into the future.
Knowing the signs and symptoms of stroke and getting immediate emergency medical care can make all the difference. Do you know the signs of stroke? Remember the acronym BEFAST.
- Balance - Difficulty with balance and coordination
- Eyes - Blurry vision, double vision, or loss of vision
- Face - or eye drooping
- Arm - or leg weakness or numbness, usually on one side of the body
- Speech - Slurring of speech or any difficulty with speech or swallowing
- Time - Time to call 911
If you experience one or more of these stroke symptoms, here are some important things to remember:
- Don’t ignore the symptoms.
- Don’t go to sleep.
- Call 911 immediately.
Why call 911? Angela Wheelden, BSN, RN, SCRN, program manager, Northern Light Stroke Care, says, “We want patients to call 911, not drive to the hospital. Emergency medical staff are trained to begin treating stroke without delay. Timely care for stroke is incredibly important because the longer patients wait, the more likely they are at risk for disability.”
There is hope for all of us. About 80% of strokes are preventable. The number one risk factor is high blood pressure. Living a healthy lifestyle can help decrease your risk, including eating nutritious foods, getting exercise, maintaining good cholesterol and blood pressure, quitting smoking, and drinking alcohol in moderation.
For more information about stroke, visit northernlighthealth.org/stroke.