May is National Stroke Awareness Month. Do you know the signs of a stroke?
According to the CDC, every year approximately 795,000 people in the US have a stroke. Strokes can occur at any age, although the majority of stroke victims are over 65. It is important that everyone know and recognize the symptoms of a stroke because patients who receive medical attention within the first 3 hours following a stroke typically have a much faster recovery than those people receiving delayed care.
Stroke prevention includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The highest risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes. Over the last fifteen years, research has shown an increase in hospitalization in younger adults, ages 18-54 due to stroke.
The CDC shared the following ABCS of stroke prevention:
A - Asprin my help lower stroke risk, however don't take asprin if you think you are having a stroke as it could cause the stroke to become worse.
B - Blood Pressure should remain controlled.
C - Cholesterol should remain controlled.
S - Smoking - don't start. if you smoke, quit.
Source: CDC.gov
