Time is critical in event of a stroke Pocahontas Memorial Hospital is launching a stroke awareness education initiative to help our community understand the risk factors and symptoms of stroke, a leading cause of death and serious long-term disability in the United States. “Time is crucial in the treatment of stroke, as on average, every 40 seconds someone in the US has a stroke, and roughly every four minutes someone dies from a stroke,” said Kyna Moore, Chief Nursing Officer at PMH. The earlier a stroke is recognized and the patient receives medical attention, the greater chance of recovery. Strokes occur when a blood vessel carrying oxygen and vital nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or ruptures. When this occurs, part of the brain is deprived of blood and oxygen, destroying millions of valuable nerve cells within minutes. “If you suspect a stroke, remember the word FAST,” Moore said. “F is for face – is your face drooping? A is for arms – can you lift both arms? S is for speech – are you slurring your words? And T is for time, call 9-1-1 immediately because with stroke, time is imperative.” The primary stroke symptoms include: * Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the face or facial drooping; * Sudden numbness or weakness in an arm or leg, especially on one side of the body; * Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech; * Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes; * Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination; * Sudden severe headache with no known cause. Leading a healthy lifestyle, including lowering risk factors like high blood pressure and weight, can help reduce your risk of stroke. For more information about stroke, visit www.strokeawareness.com.
