Strokes Can Be Prevented - Learn How to Control Your Risk Factors
Every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke. On average, a death occurs every 3 minutes and 11 seconds. However, up to 80 perfect of strokes can be prevented. Learning how to control your risk factors is one of the best ways you can prevent a stroke.
When it comes to stroke, time is critical. Recognizing a stroke is the first step in getting the treatment you need. Each minute a stroke goes untreated two million brain cells die. This increases the risk of permanent brain damage, disability, and death. Remember the acronym “BE FAST” to recognize and respond to stroke.
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain stops or a blood vessel in the brain bursts.
What are the types of strokes?
- An ischemic stroke occurs when plaque or blood clots block the blood vessels to the brain. It is the most common type of stroke.
- A hemorrhagic stroke happens when a vessel in your brain breaks causing bleeding in the brain.
- A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) happens when there is a brief blockage of blood flow to the brain. Your symptoms may go away, but you should see a doctor right away, as a TIA is a warning that a stroke may be coming. Your stroke risk increases once you have had a TIA.
What are the Risk Factors of a Stroke?
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
- Patent foramen ovale (PFO)
- Carotid artery disease
- Tobacco use/smoking
- Drug abuse
- Heavy alcohol use
- Physical inactivity
- Ages 65 years or older
- Family history of stroke or genetic risk
- Personal history of stroke or TIA
- Race or ethnic background
How to Reduce Your Risk of Stroke
- Know your blood pressure. Optimal blood pressure 120/80 or less.
- Ask your doctor if you have atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat).
- If you smoke, stop.
- If you drink alcohol, limit to two drinks or less per day.
- Find out if you have high cholesterol.
- If you are diabetic, work with your doctor to control your diabetes.
- Include exercise and physical activities you enjoy in your daily routine.
- Maintain a balanced diet, limit your salt and fat intake.
How to Recognize Stroke Symptoms
To assess whether you or someone else is having a stroke, B.E.F.A.S.T.
B - Balance: loss of balance or headache/dizziness
E - Eyes: blurred vision, loss of vision or double vision that goes away when one eye is closed
F – Face: ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
A – Arms: ask the person to hold up both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S – Speech: ask the person to complete a simple sentence, like “you can't teach an old dog new tricks.” Are the words slurred? Does the person repeat the sentence correctly?
T – Time: if the person shows any of these symptoms, time is very important. Call 911 immediately and get to a hospital fast.
Nationally Recognized Stroke Care
The Bronson Neuroscience Center in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo have a team of board-certified neurologists specializing in stroke treatment and rehabilitation. With a special team that’s available day or night, we're ready for you 24/7. You'll receive fast, high-quality, effective treatment.
Bronson Methodist Hospital is certified by The Joint Commission as a Comprehensive Stroke Center (2015 - present) and Bronson Battle Creek as Acute Stroke Ready (2021-present).
To learn more about Bronson’s advanced stroke treatments and how they can improve lives, visit Stroke Care in Southwest Michigan.
