May is National Stroke Awareness Month, and CHRISTUS Health is encouraging people to know the signs of a stroke, which affects nearly 800,000 Americans each year.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates someone in the U.S. has a stroke every 40 seconds, and someone dies of a stroke every three minutes.
“When treating a stroke, time is critical,” said Alysce Parish, stroke coordinator for CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System. “Identifying symptoms quickly and calling 911 right away helps patients get care sooner, which can greatly improve their chances for a better recovery.”
Strokes are categorized into two types: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
An ischemic stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked, causing a loss of oxygen and nutrients that can cause brain cells to die within minutes. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs due to sudden bleeding in the brain, which can cause pressure on brain cells, damaging them.
An ischemic stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked, causing a loss of oxygen and nutrients that can cause brain cells to die within minutes. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs due to sudden bleeding in the brain, which can cause pressure on brain cells, damaging them.
“Receiving treatment as soon as possible can significantly reduce the lasting effects of a stroke,” said Lauren Beckham, stroke program manager for CHRISTUS St. Michael Health System in Texarkana. “That’s why calling 911 immediately is so important, rather than attempting to drive yourself or a loved one to the hospital.”
The easiest way to recognize stroke symptoms is the acronym: B.E.F.A.S.T.
- B: Balance – Is there a sudden loss of balance or coordination?
- E: Eyes – Is there sudden blurred or double vision?
- F: Face – Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop?
- A: Arm – Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- S: Speech – Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- T: Time – If you observe any of these signs, call 911 immediately, as time is very important.
A stroke survivor is at a higher risk of having another stroke. Nearly 200,000 strokes occur in people who have had one.
Parish said high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity and diabetes are some of the major causes of stroke.
Parish said high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity and diabetes are some of the major causes of stroke.
“Making healthy choices and prioritizing your overall well-being can go a long way in lowering your risk,” Beckham said.
“Recovery after a stroke is different for everyone,” she added. “While some individuals regain full function, others continue to face lasting effects. Understanding your risk factors, recognizing symptoms and taking immediate action can make the difference in saving a life.”
To learn more about stroke care, visit our website.
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