Act F.A.S.T. to Recognize Stroke
 By Mark Hillyer, M.D.

You can help prevent a stroke by minimizing risk factors. The main risk factors are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, previous stroke or transient ischemic attack, atrial fibrillation (a type of abnormal heart rhythm), smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, and obesity. It is important to maintain control of these factors. This can be achieved through medications, lifestyle changes, dietary changes, and diligence in regards to preventative health care. Other factors cannot be changed. People over the age of 65, African-Americans, and individuals with a family history of strokes are at greater risk.

Identifying stroke symptoms early and receiving prompt medical care are keys to survival and reducing a person's chance of long-term disability. The National Stroke Association has an easy method to recognize if someone may have just experienced a stroke - simply remember to "Act F.A.S.T.":

F=Face
Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

A=Arm
Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S=Speech
Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Does the speech sound slurred or strange?

T=Time
If you observe any of these signs, it's time to call 9-1-1.

Other symptoms of a stroke may include sudden, severe headache and sudden neurological symptoms such as loss of vision in one eye or to one side in both eyes, weakness or numbness on one side of the body, or difficulties walking. Sudden confusion, dizziness, loss of coordination, or difficulty swallowing can also occur.


 

Dr. Mark Hillyer is a board-certified family practitioner at Bolivar Family Health Center, a satellite of North Canton Medical Foundation. To learn more or schedule an appointment, please call 330-874-7165.