Stroke is a disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain.
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or ruptures. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so it and brain cells die.
WHEN STROKE STRIKES, EVERY SECOND COUNTS! A stroke is always a medical emergency. The longer it goes untreated, the greater the chance of long lasting damage.
Learn to recognize the signs of stroke using F.A.S.T. F is for facial drooping, A is for arm weakness, S is for speech difficulty and T is for time to call 911.
Prevention Checklist
I plan to take these steps instead of having another stroke:
- ☑ Know the cause of my stroke.
- ☑ Manage high blood pressure.
- ☑ Control cholesterol.
- ☑ Reduce blood sugar.
- ☑ Be active.
- ☑ Eat better.
- ☑ Lose weight.
- ☑ Stop smoking.
- ☑ Be involved in my treatment plan decisions.
- ☑ Take medications as prescribed.
- ☑ Join a program that includes exercise, education and counseling.
Credit: American Heart Association