Know the Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke… Every Second
Counts!
Signs of Stroke in Men and Women
- Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech.
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
Call 9-1-1 right away if you or someone else has any of these symptoms.
For more on stroke and a video from the CDC:
https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/signs_symptoms.htm
5 Key facts about stroke:
FACT #1: Stroke kills brain cells, it happens when a clot or rupture interrupts blood flow to the brain. Without oxygen-rich blood, brain cells die.
FACT #2: Types of stroke – Ischemic is caused by a clot, Hemorrhagic is caused by a rupture and Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or “mini-stroke” is caused by a temporary blockage.
FACT #3: About one in four stroke survivors is at risk for another. Fortunately, up to 80 percent of second clot-related strokes may be preventable.
FACT #4: Prevention is key. Had a stroke? Create a plan with your doctor to prevent another, which may include managing high blood pressure and discussing aspirin or other medicine. Aspirin is not appropriate for everyone, so be sure to talk to your doctor before you begin an aspirin regimen.
FACT #5: Time lost is brain lost. Learn the FAST warning signs. F- Face Drooping A-Arm Weakness S- Speech Difficulty T- Time to call 911.
Steps to reduce your risks:
- Eat Healthy Diet-more veggies and fruits (lower your intake of salt, saturated fats, and cholesterol
- Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Move more
- If you drink alcohol do it in moderation
- Prevent or manage the following health conditions: high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol
- Quit smoking
For more on this visit, CDC Know The Facts About Stroke: https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/facts_stroke.htm
What is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is a measurement of the way that blood presses against your artery walls.
The pressure that occurs during a heartbeat is called systolic pressure.
Pressure between heartbeats is called diastolic pressure.
High blood pressure is also known as hypertension. *See infographic on next page for BP readings.*
**Have your blood pressure checked and see if you are at risk**
Check out this information on risks for High Blood Pressure from Dr. Reetu Sharma: https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/heart/are-you-at-risk-for-high-blood-pressure
Steps to take control of your blood pressure (Download the PDF fact sheet):
What’s a DASH Diet look like? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/dash-diet/art-2004845