A stroke happens when something suddenly blocks or bursts a blood vessel in the brain, cutting off the supply of oxygen and nutrients. Consequently, brain cells begin to die within minutes — making it a true medical emergency.
Each year in the United States, nearly 795,000 people suffer a stroke. To put it into perspective, that’s one person every 40 seconds. Even more alarming, someone dies from a stroke every 3 minutes and 14 seconds. Therefore, stroke remains a leading cause of death and long-term disability.
🚨 What Causes a Stroke?
Although a stroke can affect anyone, certainly, some health conditions increase the risk. These include, for instance, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. In addition, being over 55 or having a family history of stroke further raises your chances.
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Sickle cell disease
Moreover, you’re at greater risk if you’re over the age of 55 or have a family history of stroke.
🧠 Recognizing the Signs of Stroke – FAST
Early detection can save lives. The American Stroke Association recommends the acronym FAST to spot the most common signs:
- F – Face Drooping: One side of the face looks uneven or numb.
- A – Arm Weakness: Difficulty raising one arm.
- S – Speech Difficulty: Slurred or strange speech.
- T – Time to Call 911: Immediate medical help is critical.
Additionally, other warning signs may include:
- Sudden blurred or lost vision
- Trouble walking or loss of balance
- A severe, sudden headache
- Numbness or weakness on one side of the body
🛡️ Can Strokes Be Prevented? Yes — Up to 80%!
The good news? The CDC says that up to 80% of strokes are preventable. With that in mind, adopting healthier habits can make a big difference.
✅ Daily Prevention Habits:
- Eat smart: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains.
- Stay active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of walking or movement each day.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol.
- Manage stress: Techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation help.
✅ Medical Management:
- Keep blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels under control with regular checkups and medications if needed.
- In some cases, doctors may suggest procedures to remove or bypass blocked arteries.
👩⚕️ Talk to Your Doctor
Knowing your personal risk factors can help you take action early. Therefore, work with a healthcare provider to create a customized prevention plan that fits your lifestyle and keeps your brain healthy for the long term.
According to the American Stroke Association, recognizing symptoms early can save lives.
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