Each May, National Stroke Awareness Month helps remind people of the importance of knowing and acting on the signs of a stroke.
“A stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability in the United States,” said Dr. Nathan Larsen, an Emergency Medicine Physician and Medical Director of Emergency Medicine at ThedaCare Medical Center-Fond du Lac. “With swift medical intervention, we can potentially help save lives and improve patient outcomes.”
A stroke is a condition in which poor blood flow to the brain results in cell death. It is an emergency situation, one in which people are strongly encouraged to dial 911 for assistance.
There are two main types of stroke: Ischemic and hemorrhagic.
Ischemic strokes, the most common type, occur when a clot blocks a vessel supplying blood to the brain. This blockage cuts off oxygen, leading to brain cell damage.
Hemorrhagic strokes are less common but often more severe. They happen when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing bleeding that damages nearby brain tissue. This may lead to severe symptoms that worsen quickly.
Time Lost = Brain Lost
When it comes to a stroke, every minute matters. According to the American Stroke Association, nearly 2 million brain cells die every minute a stroke goes untreated. Rapid treatment may help minimize brain damage and potentially save lives.
“Delays can increase the likelihood of permanent disability,” Dr. Larsen said. “The sooner we can begin treatment, the better the odds of a positive outcome.”
Treatments for a stroke may include clot-busting medications for an ischemic stroke and surgical intervention for a hemorrhagic stroke.
Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke is the first step in getting prompt help. The acronym BE FAST can help people remember the warning signs:
- Balance: Loss of balance or coordination
- Eyes: Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Face: Facial drooping or uneven smile
- Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm or leg
- Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
- Time: Time to call 911 immediately
“Dial 911 immediately if any of these symptoms are present in yourself or someone else near you,” Dr. Larsen said. “Don’t try to drive yourself or a loved one to the hospital. Emergency medical services can start lifesaving treatment in the ambulance and quickly bring the affected individual to the appropriate medical facility.”
People can help lower their stroke risk by:
- Controlling high blood pressure
- Decreasing the amount of cholesterol and saturated fat in their diet
- Abstaining from tobacco use
- Managing diabetes
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Exercising regularly
- Drinking alcohol in moderation, if at all
- Treating obstructive sleep apnea
- Avoiding illegal drugs
While some stroke risk factors can be controlled, others cannot. Non-modifiable risk factors include:
- Age: People age 55 or older have a higher risk of a stroke than do younger people. However, anyone, at any age, can have a stroke.
- Race or ethnicity: Black and Hispanic people have a higher risk of a stroke than do people of other races or ethnicities.
- Hormones: Using birth control pills or hormone therapies that include estrogen increases the risk of a stroke.
Stroke Care in Fond du Lac
The newly opened ThedaCare Medical Center-Fond du Lac, at 755 West Johnson St.,offers full-service emergency and inpatient care and is equipped to handle stroke emergencies.
“We’re proud to offer stroke care without people needing to travel long distances,” Dr. Larsen said. “Whether it’s a stroke or a related medical issue, we’re equipped to respond immediately and connect people to more advanced levels of care when needed.”
Dr. Larsen reiterated the importance of stroke awareness.
“This May, commit to learning the signs of a stroke, sharing them with your family and remembering BE FAST and call 911,” he said. “Your quick action could make all the difference.”
