Knowing the signs of stroke can save someone's life.
Once a stroke begins to present itself, 
and dial immediately - the more time that is wasted, the more functioning a stroke survivor could lose as a result of the loss of 1,900,000 brain cells a minute. As described above, represents the majority of the signs of stroke.
United Stroke Alliance (USA) recognizes that each year 700,000 Americans suffer a new or recurrent stroke. Approximately 543,000 survive the stroke, many experiencing significant physical limitations as well as emotional and cognitive challenges. For almost everyone, the stroke was not a planned or wanted event. It struck without notice and changed the lives of the family forever.
In short, most people in America do not know the signs and do not respond quick enough to receive early treatment to minimize post stroke challenges. In fact, 80% of Americans that experience a stroke do not respond quick enough because they did not know the signs of stroke.
A stroke occurs when a blockage or bleeding of a blood vessel either interrupts or reduces the supply of blood to the brain. When this happens, the brain does not receive enough oxygen or nutrients, and brain cells start to die. This is a medical emergency. Although many strokes are treatable, some can lead to disability or death.
Possible underlying causes of stroke. If people are able, they can achieve minimizing the risk of stroke by making life style changes as listed below:
Diet
Eating a healthful diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and legumes.
Weight
Maintaining a moderate weight and avoiding overweight and obesity.
Exercise
Exercising and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle.
Avoid Tobacco
Avoiding the use of tobacco products.
Minimize Alcohol
Minimizing the use of alcohol and only drinking at moderate levels.
Controlling hypertension
Controlling hypertension/high blood pressure from getting to 130/80 mmHg or higher. (Source: FDA.gov)
Managing diabetes
Diabetes affects blood sugar in the body which increases risk of stroke.
Maintaining acceptable cholesterol levels
Risk for stroke increases when excess cholesterol enters the bloodstream. It can cause a build-up in your arteries, making them narrow and stiff.
No Illicit Drugs
Abstaining from the use of illicit drugs
Secondary Prevention
In approximately 25% of the strokes each year, the cause of the stroke is unknown. In many of these cases, Atrial Fibrillation or AFB is indicated in the patient. Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat that increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. Signs include dizziness, weakness, and fatigue. Treatment involves medication and lifestyle changes, and sometimes procedures such as cardioversion, ablation, pacemakers, or surgery. (WEBMD) Cardiac diagnostics and monitoring could be helpful in minimizing the risk of a secondary stroke.
In other cases where the cause of the stroke is unknown, there is the possibility of a PFO. Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a hole between the left and right atria (upper chambers) of the heart. This hole exists in everyone before birth, but most often closes shortly after being born. PFO is what the hole is called when it fails to close naturally after a baby is born. A foramen ovale allows blood to go around the lungs. It has been hypothesized that many cryptogenic strokes are caused by small emboli that travel from the legs to the right atrium; during straining (such as a Valsalva maneuver) these emboli can go across a PFO into the left atrium and then travel to the brain, producing a stroke.
There are over 700,000 people in America that survive a stroke each year. Every 40 seconds someone has a stroke. Every 4 minutes someone dies from a stroke. Stroke is the #5 cause of death in the US and is the #1 cause of adult disability. This disability could be reduced if patients receive early treatment for stroke. Unfortunately, most people do not know the signs of stroke. In fact, the majority of Americans experiencing a stroke do not respond quick enough because they did not know the signs of stroke and the immediate need for treatment. In short, the longer the time for getting treatment, the more function is lost due to the fact the brain loses 1,900,000 brain cells per minute when a person is experiencing a stroke!
Finding people and resources for both the survivor and care giver are key to both short and long term success. So many things will be new and an adjustment to what you are used to doing. Finding resources and friends that can share experiences and solutions will help you navigate your new normal.
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Open to stroke survivors and caregivers/family members
One of the best steps to recovery and caregiving is to get involved. Join us online and learn something new, find a friend, watch us live - there is so much to do!
We appreciate your support!
United Stroke Alliance
United Stroke Alliance