Region's Leading Provider of Comprehensive Stroke Care
In less time than it will take to read this page, someone in the United States will have a stroke – or a “brain attack,” in which blood flow to the brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die. On average, a stroke occurs about every 45 seconds. According to the National Stroke Association, stroke is the leading cause of adult disability and the third leading cause of death in the nation.
The best weapons for withstanding a stroke include:
Knowing the warning signs of a stroke
Knowledge of the risk factors
Taking fast action if you or a loved one experience a stroke
A stroke must be treated with the same urgency as a heart attack. Brain tissue is literally starving for oxygen after a stroke, so every minute counts. If treated within the first three hours, the effects of stroke can potentially be minimized and even reversed.
Know the warning signs of a stroke
A stroke affects blood flow supplying oxygen and nutrients to the brain. A stroke is considered a major emergency, and prompt treatment is the most effective way to help reduce the chance of brain damage or even death.
Act F.A.S.T. to save lives
FACE Ask the person to smile. Warning sign – One side of the face does not move as well as the other.
ARMS Ask the person to raise both arms. Warning sign – One arm does not move or one arm drifts.
SPEECH Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence, such as “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” Warning sign – Person slurs words or cannot speak.
TIME Find out when the person was last observed well. Advantage – More advanced treatment options may be available if medical care is received within 3 hours of the start of symptoms.
If someone you know is experiencing one or more of these warning signs, call 911 immediately.
