May is Stroke Awareness Month. What are the signs and symptoms of a stroke?
Did you know that acting "FAST" can save your life:
It's important to remember that not all the warning signs occur in every stroke. Don't ignore any signs of stroke, even if they go away.
Remember to check the time. When did the first warning sign or symptom start? You'll be asked this important question later. If given within three hours of the start of symptoms, a clot-busting drug called tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) can reduce long-term disability for the most common type of stroke. tPA is the only FDA-approved medication for the treatment of stroke within three hours of stroke symptom onset.
If you have one or more stroke symptoms that last more than a few minutes, don't delay. Immediately call 9-1-1.
If you're with someone who may be having stroke symptoms, immediately call 9-1-1 or the EMS. Expect the person to protest — denial is common. Don't take "no" for an answer. Insist on taking prompt action.
Prevention is key when you've a history of high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Along with regular medical check-ups, maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise, it's also recommended to:
Avoid excess fats: Eating a lot of fat, particularly saturated fat and cholesterol, may contribute to atherosclerosis, which is associated with stroke.
Avoid excess sodium: Excess sodium in the diet is linked to hypertension.
Limit alcohol intake: Individuals who have more than two or three alcoholic beverages a day are at an increased risk of stroke.
For more information visit the American Stroke Association's their website at strokeassociation.org
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