Stroke Awareness

Articles

May 1

The American Heart Association indicates that stroke is common in the United States. Comprising one in every 19 deaths, stroke affects someone every 40 seconds. It is important to spread awareness during the month of May to help more people recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke and what it is, how to prevent stroke, and resources for recovery after experiencing a stroke. There are many options for individuals who have had a stroke to recover abilities. Occupational, physical, and speech therapists develop unique treatment plans to best address to specific needs of each unique person.

What is a Stroke?

Generally, stroke occurs in the brain when the flow of blood is limited or cut off to a particular area, which prevents oxygen from reaching essential cells in the tissue. Due to the rapid nature of cell decline, once a stroke has occurred, immediate attention is required to prevent continuous damage.

A stroke is either caused by a blockage in an artery or blood vessel (ischemic stroke), or a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Ischemic stroke is most common and is often a result of restricted blood vessels due to buildup and deposits that have accumulated within vessels. Blood clots can travel through the body’s bloodstream and up to the brain causing a blockage.

Symptoms and Warning Signs of a Stroke

We can be aware of many warning signs to help us all recognize stroke as soon as possible. It is important to spread awareness about these symptoms to ensure more people can recognize the signs to help those who love to seek medical attention immediately. The American Stroke Association has a useful acronym to help you identify a stroke: F.A.S.T.

Face drooping: a person is unable to smile, feels numb, or cannot move one side of their face.
Arm weakness: inability to raise both arms together without one becoming slack or one arm feeling numb or weak.
Speech difficulty: slurring words and suddenly becoming unable to speak clearly.
Time for medical attention: call 911 or seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Use the F.A.S.T. acronym to test a person’s wellness and quickly help determine whether they need assistance.

In general, warning signs of a stroke could include anybody numbness, problems with vision, being off-balance or having issues walking normally, experiencing an intense headache without explanation, or struggling with speech and understanding words. Women might also become fatigued or nauseated.

Preventing Stroke

Although a stroke cannot be prevented once it has occurred, there are factors that may put individuals at higher risk but can be managed.

High Blood Pressure

Those with high blood pressure are most likely to have a stroke but blood pressure is a controllable risk factor.

Smoking

Smoking is another reason stroke may occur. The chemicals in cigarettes cause damage to blood vessels and the cardiovascular system as a whole and can lead to blockages or hemorrhages in vessels.

Diet & Nutrition

Cholesterol accumulates in the bloodstream, and individuals with diets high in fats like trans or saturated fats or cholesterol are at a high risk of stroke. The blockages can occur due to cholesterol and blood pressure. Diet is one way to ensure you receive proper nutrition and prevent the risk of stroke due to dietary choices