What to Know About Strokes

By Susan Hecht, RN

Stroke.
Why is it important to know your risk factors for a stroke?
Prevention and education! Knowing your risk factors and understanding them is the key to prevention. We are all aware that there are some things that we are unable to modify in our lives; however let’s just talk a little about the things that can be modified by your physician, lifestyle modifications or possibly even medication if necessary.
A regular medical checkup with your primary physician is the first step. This visit can be used for education purposes as well as preventable measures if needed. The single most important thing to know is your blood pressure. Monitoring your blood pressure is the most preventative measure one can take. If it is high (140/90) notify your physician for medical follow up. Those with diabetes mellitus, heart disease, or other health issues should always follow up with their physician.
Some lifestyle modifications we are able to make are tobacco use, obesity, and excessive alcohol intake. Some signs and symptoms of a stroke are as follows: sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg (especially one side of the body); sudden visual problems (difficulty seeing in one or both); sudden dizziness or difficulty walking or loss of balance; severe headache with no known cause; sudden difficulty speaking; and sudden difficulty in understanding something.
If experiencing any of the above symptoms, don’t take a chance dial 911 immediately. For further information regarding strokes and or further signs and symptoms; discuss them with your primary physician or call the American Stroke Association at 1-800-4STROKE.