May is American Stroke Awareness Month. As a result, our team at AFC Urgent Care Centennial thought now would be the perfect time to discuss steps you can take to not only prevent a stroke but also recognize one as soon as possible.

After all, when it comes to a stroke, minutes matter!

Am I at an Increased Risk for a Stroke?

Someone living in the United States experiences a stroke every 40 seconds, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Although anyone can experience a stroke, there are certain factors that can put you at an even higher risk of suffering from a stroke.

If you are living with high blood pressure, diabetes and/or heart disease, then you are at a higher risk for stroke than other people. In addition, a family history and/or a personal history of brain aneurysms can cause you to be at risk for a stroke.

Symptoms of a Stroke

• Numbness or weakness in your face, arm or leg, especially on one side
• Confusion or trouble understanding other people
• Problems walking or staying balanced or coordinated
• Dizziness
• Severe headache that comes on for no reason
• Difficulty speaking
• Trouble seeing with one or both eyes

How Do You Act F.A.S.T.?

When it comes to a stroke, minutes matter. During a stroke, oxygen is cut off from your brain, which can lead to death or disability. That’s why it’s important to act F.A.S.T.

If you think someone is experiencing a stroke, do this test—make sure the face isn’t dropping to one side, one of the arms isn’t falling to the side and/or the speech isn’t slurred. If any of those symptoms are present, emergency medical care is needed.

Ways to Prevent a Stroke

• Take steps to lower your blood pressure.
• Lose weight.
• Exercise more.
• Drink only in moderation.
• Treat atrial fibrillation.
• Treat diabetes.
• Quit smoking.

If you or someone you know experience stroke symptoms, call 911 for immediate medical attention. If you have a non-emergency medical issue, set up an AFC TeleCare appointment with AFC Urgent Care Centennial today.