When a person has a stroke it is important that you know what to do and that you act fast. Doctors often say “time is brain” when it comes to a stroke as two million brain cells die for every minute the brain is without oxygen. This can often lead to brain damage, disability, or death.
Treatment for stroke is available in the ambulance, so it’s critical for people to dial 9-1-1 immediately if you suspect that someone is having a stroke. According to the CDC, someone in the US has a stroke every 40 seconds and someone dies of stroke every four minutes.
HSHS Good Shepherd HOspital encourages everyone to know the signs of a stroke by remembering the acronym BE FAST. B for balance difficulty, E for eye changes, F for face drooping, A for arm weakness, S for speech difficulty, and T for terrible headache. Symptoms of a stroke are usually sudden loss of balance or coordination, vision changes, facial drooping, sudden weakness, sudden onset of trouble speaking, and sudden onset of severe headache.
The CDC also says that 80% of strokes are preventable by making lifestyle changes including no smoking, being physically active, controlling cholesterol, controlling blood pressure, maintaining a healthy body weight, and reducing blood sugar.
If you think someone is having a stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately. For more information about signs, symptoms, and how to respond visit the American Stroke Association. Find out more also at hshsgoodshepherd.org.
