Strokes 101

This week I went to a Family Orientation meeting at the Rehabilition Center. One of the things that they talked about, that struck me the most, was Risk Factors and Warning Signs of a stroke. So I guess my thoughts are kind of along the lines of: "If we can help only one other family from going through this type of tragedy, then it will all be worth it." So please read the following post and pass it on:

Stroke Risk Factors
Anyone can have a stroke no matter your age, race or gender. But, the chances of having a stroke increase if a person has certain risk factors, or criteria that can cause a stroke. The good news is that up to 80 percent of strokes can be prevented, and the best way to protect yourself and loved ones from stroke is to understand personal risk and how to manage it.
There are 2 types of risk factors for stroke: controllable and uncontrollable. Controllable risk factors generally fall into two categories: lifestyle risk factors or medical risk factors. Lifestyle risk factors can often be changed, while medical risk factors can usually be treated. Both types can be managed best by working with a doctor, who can prescribe medications and advise on how to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Uncontrollable risk factors include being over age 55, being male, being African American, Hispanic or Asian/Pacific Islander, or having a family history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA).
Controllable Risk Factors:
High Blood Pressure
Atrial Fibrillation
High Cholesterol
Diabetes
Atherosclerosis
Circulation Problems
Tobacco Use and Smoking
Alcohol Use
Physical Inactivity
Obesity

Uncontrollable Risk Factors:
Age
Gender
Race
Family History
Previous Stroke or TIA
Fibromuscular Dysplasia
Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO or Hole in the Heart)


Warning Signs:

Unique Symptoms in Women
It is important to recognize stroke symptoms and act quickly.
Common stroke symptoms seen in both men and women:
Sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg -- especially on one side of the body
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
Sudden severe headache with no known cause

Women may report unique stroke symptoms:
sudden face and limb pain
sudden hiccups
sudden nausea
sudden general weakness
sudden chest pain
sudden shortness of breath
sudden palpitations

Call 9-1-1 immediately if you have any of these symptoms
Every minute counts for stroke patients and acting F.A.S.T. can lead patients to the stroke treatments they desperately need. The most effective stroke treatments are only available if the stroke is recognized and diagnosed within the first three hours of the first symptoms. Actually, many Americans are not aware that stroke patients may not be eligible for stroke treatments if they arrive at the hospital after the three-hour window.

If you think someone may be having a stroke, act F.A.S.T. and do this simple test:
F—FACE: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
A—ARMS: 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 9-1-1 immediately.