Every year on October 29, World Stroke Day is observed, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the prevention, recognition, and treatment of stroke. The goal is simple but vital: to help people understand how to identify a stroke quickly and take immediate action that could save a life.
What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die, making timely medical intervention critical.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds, and it is a leading cause of serious long-term disability.
At UMC El Paso, we emphasize the importance of remembering the acronym BE FAST, a simple way to identify potential stroke symptoms and act quickly:
- Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination
- Eyes: Blurred or double vision
- Face: Facial drooping or uneven smile
- Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm
- Speech: Slurred or strange speech
- Time: Call 911 immediately
Acting quickly is crucial. The faster a person receives medical care, the better their chances of recovery and reduced disability.
Certain health conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart, increase the risk of stroke.
Can a stroke be prevented?
According to the CDC, many strokes can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices.
- Maintaining a healthy diet low in salt and saturated fats
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Avoiding tobacco use and limiting alcohol
- Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes through medical follow-up
Regular checkups and awareness of personal health numbers can help identify risks early.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call 1-800-473-8440 or 915-479-3484 today to schedule an appointment, or visit www.umcelpaso.org to learn more.
