In an instant, a stroke can change everything.
That’s because when a stroke occurs, blood and oxygen traveling to your brain become blocked. Within minutes, brain cells die, and functions can be lost. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, that could impact a person’s ability to move, speak, eat, think, remember, control their emotions and control their bodily functions.
A stroke can happen to anyone, at any time. That’s why it’s important to know the signs and learn how to reduce your risk, so you’re empowered with the right information.
What is a stroke?
Stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death and the leading cause of disability in the United States, according to the American Stroke Association. There are three different types of stroke:
- An ischemic stroke occurs when a clot obstructs the flow of blood to the brain
- A hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel ruptures and prevents blood from flowing to the brain
- A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a “mini stroke” caused by a temporary clot that blocks blood flow to the brain
What are the warning signs of a stroke?
There’s an acronym that can help you learn the most common symptoms of a stroke: B.E.F.A.S.T.
Here’s what it stands for:
Balance loss: when a person seems to struggle with their balance or coordination, or is experiencing dizziness and/or having trouble walking.
Eye (vision) changes: a sudden alteration in sight, such as blurred vision, double vision or loss of sight. This could happen in one or both eyes.
Face drooping: when a person’s face appears to droop, or it becomes numb. If you’re unsure, ask them to smile and see if it’s uneven.
Arm weakness: when a person’s arm is weak or numb. If they raise both arms, one may drift down.
Speech difficulty: When a person’s speech is slurred or difficult to understand. Ask them to repeat a sentence.
Time: time to call 911. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, or you see someone else going through them, they may be having a stroke. This is a medical emergency, and you should call 911 immediately.
While the above list accounts for some of the most common symptoms, it’s not an exhaustive list, by any means. Other stroke symptoms include sudden numbness, confusion or a severe headache, with no known cause.
In addition, women may experience symptoms that aren’t commonly seen in men, according to Northwestern Medicine. These may include:
- Hiccups
- Nausea
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- A racing heart
- Generalized weakness and feelings of disorientation
Again, if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention. While it may be tempting to dismiss some of these signs, it’s important to listen to your body and act quickly. If they are indeed indicators of a stroke, inaction can have serious consequences.
How can I lower my risk?
There are actions you can take that may lower your risk for a stroke and improve your health. In fact, the American Heart Association estimates that up to 80% of strokes may be preventable.
The American Stroke Association says the following risk factors can raise your risk for having a stroke:
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Diet
- Physical inactivity
- Obesity
- High cholesterol
- Untreated health conditions such as atrial fibrillation, sleep apnea, carotid artery disease, peripheral artery disease and other types of heart disease
Knowing what puts you at risk can help you make everyday choices for better health. Here are actions you can take to address the risks outlined above:
- Exercise regularly. Research shows that when we sit too much and move too little, it can negatively impact our health. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans say that to get optimal benefits from exercise, adults should get at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week, along with muscle-strengthening activities at least two days each week. How you spend those minutes is up to you! Choose activities you enjoy, such as dancing, brisk walking, spin class or water aerobics and make them a part of your routine.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk for a number of chronic health conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes and stroke. According to the American Stroke Association, even a small amount of weight loss—just 2% to 3%—can lower your risk, while those who can lose 5% to 10% may experience the most benefits.
- Quit smoking. People who smoke are two to four times more likely to have a stroke than those who haven’t smoked for 10 or more years, according to the American Stroke Association. Putting down the tobacco can make a significant impact on your health and on how you feel; it may even add years to your life. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor.
- Follow a heart-healthy diet. Want to eat healthier? The American Heart Association says to aim for lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy proteins and unsaturated fats. At the same time, minimize eating foods that are ultra-processed and/or have added sugars and high amounts of sodium; and if you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Looking for heart-healthy recipe ideas? The American Heart Association has you covered with its recipe page.
- See your doctor regularly. Your healthcare provider knows you best. They can monitor any changes to your health and answer questions you may have. They can also help you devise a plan to manage the health conditions that could increase your risk of having a stroke, including diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, atrial fibrillation and heart disease. Be sure to ask your doctor what other steps you can take to lower your risks having a stroke and improve your health. This is what they’re here for!
