Stroke is a medical emergency — every minute counts

Every year, 780,000 Americans experience a stroke. It is the third leading cause and leading cause of disability long-term in the United States. Many Americans don’t know what to do or how to recognize the signs of stroke. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) has provided the following information.

“Stroke is an unmistakable event. Few other medical conditions come on so suddenly or are so noticeable to a bystander,” said Walter J. Koroshetz, M.D., deputy director, NINDS. “For this reason, it is critical that people know to call 9-1-1 and get to the hospital to receive appropriate medical treatment immediately when a stroke occurs. Prompt treatment can dramatically decrease or even prevent long-term disabilities caused by a stroke.”

Stroke is a disruption in blood flow to the brain or bleeding around the brain. Brain cells die when they are not supplied with oxygen and nutrients by the blood. A stroke damages the brain and you might not even realize you’re having one. A stroke is a distinct sign to anyone who is not a part of the process.

* Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg (especially on one side of the body)

* Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech

* Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes

* Sudden trouble walking, dizziness or loss of balance or coordination

* Sudden severe headache with no known cause

Every minute is important when treating stroke victims. There are treatments available to greatly reduce the effects of stroke. For some treatment you will need to be there within 60 minutes. Knowing the symptoms of a stroke is important. It’s also important to note the time and location of your first stroke symptoms. This will allow you to quickly get to the hospital to help save yourself, or someone you love, from long-term disability.

Lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of stroke. Part of the National Institutes of Health’s NINDS, the NINDS is dedicated to education and research on stroke prevention and treatment. High blood pressure, diabetes and smoking are all risk factors. Talk to your doctor about your concerns about stroke risk factors. Learn about your risks and take steps to reduce them.

NINDS provides more information on stroke.

Call 1-800-352-9424 to order free materials or visit www.free-materials.org www.stroke.nih.gov.