Stroke is the third largest killer in the United States. It is only surpassed by heart attacks and cancer. The statistics may be staggering, but you can decrease the risk of suffering a debilitating stroke through education and life style changes. Recognizing the major early warning signs is critical when a stroke does happen.

Warning Signs

According to The U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke there are many warning signs of a stroke, but the three major ones are sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, confused thinking, and difficulty speaking. Others are dizziness, double vision, or sudden onset of a headache.

Causes

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is deprived of oxygen or becomes clogged or bursts. As a result, that part of the brain is damaged and will not control a particular part of the body.

Procedure

If you have any signs of a stroke, you must seek medical assistance immediately. It is critical that a clot-busting drug be given within three hours of the first symptoms to prevent long-term disability.

Prevention/Solution

Strokes might be prevented by eliminating known risk factors and by living a healthy lifestyle. Lose weight, eat a healthy diet that is low in fat and salt, stop smoking, increase exercise, and limit or eliminate alcoholic beverages.

Misconceptions

A common belief is that strokes don't happen to young people, but the fact is that they can and do happen at any age.

Source:

American Heart Association/American Stroke Association

Knowing the Warning Signs of Stroke

Common Misconceptions About Stroke

More Information:

Are You Aware of Stroke Warning Signs?