Stroke Prevention
Prevention Starts Earlier Than Most People Think
Stroke can happen at any age. Understanding risk factors, recognizing warning signs, and taking action early can save lives and reduce long-term disability.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is the leading risk factor for stroke and often has no symptoms, which is why its called “silent killer”
- Its important to check your numbers regularly
- Take your medications as prescribed
- Eat foods that are low in sodium (salt)
- Manage stress and stay active
Smoking & Nicotine Use
Smoking damages your blood vessels, reduces oxygen going to your brain, and increases risks of blood clots
- Quit all smoking - not just cigarettes (cigarillos, vapes, and hookah)
- Avoid secondhand smoke
- Use support if needed (gum and patches)
- Quitting isn't easy, so start with reducing how much you are smoking
Obesity & Physical Health
Excess weight increases your risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and heart disease
- Its important to move your body daily (start with walking around the mall)
- Choose fields that are healthy and only eat junk food once in a while
- Stay hydrated, water is the best option and its free
- Focus on progress, not perfection
Alcohol & Substance Use
Certain substances can raise your blood pressure, cause damage to blood vessels, and increases your risk of stroke
- Avoid drugs, especially cocaine and amphetamine (uppers and speed)
- Limit alcohol consumption (daily drinking, heavy drinking)
- Never use drugs with unknown ingredients
- Support is available... reach out
Stress & Mental Health
Chronic stress, poor sleep, and untreated mental health challenges can increase your risk of stroke. When you are stressed, you may drink, smoke, or eat unhealthy foods to cope
- Prioritize your sleep, listen to your body and rest when needed
- Talk about your feelings to someone you trust or write in a journal
- Seek help when you need it, its okay to say no when your have a lot on your plate
- Talk to your doctor is you are feeling depressed or anxious
Signs & Symptoms of Stroke
'B' (balance)
The individual may experience sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or trouble walking (unsteady on their feel as if they had a few drinks)
'E' (eye)
The individual may suddenly have vision changes (like blurry vision or double vision) or the individual may lose vision
'F' (face)
One side of the face may droop or it may feel numb (if you "say cheese" and smile, one side will not be as high as the other)
'A' (arm)
The individual may experience weakness or numbness in one arm (for an example, you may be unable to grip your cellphone or a bottle of water may seem too heavy to pickup). This can occur in your leg (which may cause the individual to walk with a limp)
'S' (speech)
The individual may experience slurred speech or difficulty speaking (getting the words out), or say words or phrases that don't make sense
'T' (time to call 911)
Time is Brain!
- Record the time the person was last known to be well with no symptoms. Time matters because some stroke treatments are only effective if given quickly after symptoms begin.
- Call 911 immediately. Do not drive yourself to the hospital or have someone else drive you if stroke is suspected. Emergency medical services can begin care on the way to the hospital and help ensure faster stroke evaluation upon arrival.
- Do not ignore symptoms simply because they are painless. Many strokes do not cause pain, but they can still cause permanent brain injury or death if treatment is delayed.
- Although stroke is more common in older adults, stroke among younger adults is increasing. If your symptoms are being minimized or dismissed, continue to advocate for yourself or your loved one. Ask questions, request a patient advocate or social worker if needed, and do not leave the hospital without understanding the cause of your symptoms.