Quick Facts About Strokes
- About once every 40 seconds someone in the U.S. has a stroke
- Stroke accounts for 1 of every 19 deaths in the U.S.
- Stroke ranks number 5 among all causes of death in the U.S.
- Stroke is a leading cause of serious, long-term disability in the U.S.
- About 795,000 people experience a new or recurrent stroke each year. Approximately
610,000 are new strokes and 185,000 are recurrent attacks
Can a stroke be stopped?
The symptoms of a stroke come on suddenly and stroke should be emphasized
as an emergency situation. There are treatments that can reduce the risk
of damage from a stroke, but only if you get help quickly. Time is particularly
critical because every second counts!
What are the warning signs of stroke?
It is important for you and your loved ones to recognize the warning signs
of stroke. You may have some or all of these signs, noting the time when
symptoms start and call 911 immediately. Don’t ignore these warning
signs, even if they go away.
- Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one
side of the body
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
B. E. F.A.S.T. is an easy way to remember how to recognize a stroke and what to do. Spot
a stroke and BE FAST.
Balance – sudden loss of balance?
Eyes – loss of vision in one or both eyes?
Face drooping – face looks uneven?
Arm weakness – arm or leg weak, hanging down?
Speech – slurred speech? trouble speaking or seems confused?
Time – call 911 now!