Understanding the Symptoms of a Stroke

    May is National Stroke Awareness Month, which makes it the perfect time to review the symptoms of a stroke. Understanding the warning signs and quickly getting help can save a life and lower the risk of damaging effects. According to the American Stroke Association, it is “the number five cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S.” An individual can lose around 1.9 million brain cells each minute a stroke is untreated, making early detection and treatment imperative. Learn how you can B.E. F.A.S.T. when responding to a stroke emergency. Balance Be alert for sudden changes in balance or walking. These changes could include unusual dizziness or rapid loss of coordination. Eyesight Be mindful of unusual variations in eyesight, such as loss of vision or double vision. Changes could be present in one or both eyes. [...]

Stroke Awareness Month

Stroke Awareness Month May is recognized as Stroke Awareness Month. Up to 80% of stroke cases can be prevented through lifestyle changes, and yet it remains the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. Non-fatal strokes can also be tragic and life-altering.  High blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity are controllable stroke risk factors. You can manage these risks by eating a well-balanced diet, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake and not smoking. Exercise plays an important role in reducing your risk of stroke by lowering high blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults need 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity or 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week. To reap the most benefit, this exercise should be broken up and spread out throughout the week.  There [...]