Understanding Stroke Risks and Signs Can Save Lives

Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States experiences a stroke. This life-altering medical event, affecting nearly 800,000 Americans each year, is the fifth leading cause of death in the country and a major contributor to long-term disability. While these numbers are staggering, the good news is that most strokes are preventable and treatable when recognized early. By understanding the risk factors, signs, and steps for prevention, you can help reduce the impact of strokes and save lives.

Types of strokes

There are two primary types of strokes:

• Ischemic Stroke: Occurs when a blood clot blocks or narrows a blood vessel leading to the brain. This is the most common type, accounting for about 87% of stroke cases.
• Hemorrhagic Stroke: Happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, leading to bleeding in or around the brain.

Some people may also experience transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or "mini strokes". These are often warning signs that you may have a stroke in the future. Symptoms of a mini stroke usually disappear within 24 hours of it happening. However, since the symptoms are similar to a stroke, it is important to go to the hospital right away if you experience them.

Main risk factors of stroke

Knowing the risk factors that increase your likelihood of having a stroke can help you take preventive action. They include:

• High Blood Pressure is the most significant risk factor for stroke.
• Diabetes and high cholesterol.
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.
• Family history of strokes or cardiovascular diseases.
• Age and Gender: Risk increases with age, and men are slightly more likely to experience strokes (though women tend to have worse outcomes).

If you have any of the above risk factors, you should talk with your doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP) about steps you can take to reduce your risk of stroke going forward.

Signs and symptoms of stroke

Time is of the essence when it comes to strokes. Learning to recognize the signs may save your life, or the life of someone you love. The easiest way to remember the warning signs is the acronym FAST:

• F - Face Drooping: Does one side of the face droop or feel numb? Ask the person to smile and see if it looks uneven.
• A - Arm Weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask them to raise both arms. Does one drift downward?
• S - Speech Difficulty: Is their speech slurred, or are they unable to speak? Ask them to repeat a simple sentence.
• T - Time to Call 911: If you observe any of these symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

Other signs could include sudden confusion, a severe headache, difficulty walking, dizziness, or vision problems in one or both eyes. If you experience any of the symptoms above or notice someone else experiencing them, it is important to immediately call 911 as immediate treatment may save a life and increase the chances for successful rehabilitation and recovery.

Steps to prevent strokes

While strokes are a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, the good news is that up to 80% of strokes are preventable with healthy lifestyle changes and proper medical care according to the American Stroke Association. Here are actionable steps you can take today to lower your risk:

• Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Check it regularly and take steps to keep it within a healthy range. High blood pressure increases stroke risk significantly.
• Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet: Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Cut down on sodium, processed foods, and added sugar. Looking for a place to start, read our blog on the Mediterranean or DASH diet.
• Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, such as walking, jogging, or cycling.
• Quit Smoking and limit alcohol intake to moderate levels.
• Manage Chronic Conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol or atrial fibrillation with prescribed treatments and lifestyle changes.
• Attend Regular Check-Ups with your doctor or APP to monitor your overall health and address potential concerns promptly.

Raising awareness about stroke is not just a matter of saving lives, but also about improving the quality of life for countless individuals and their families. Recognizing the warning signs, understanding the risk factors, and promoting a healthy lifestyle are important steps you can take toward preventing a stroke. Remember, time is critical when it comes to strokes, and early action can make all the difference. Advocate, educate, and take steps today to protect yourself and those you care about.

*An advanced practice provider includes a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.