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Know the Signs of Stroke According to the American Stroke Foundation, stroke is the number one cause of adult disability and the third leading cause of death in the US. People over age 55, males, and African-Americans have a higher risk of stroke, although it can affect people of all ages, genders, and races. Factors that may increase your risk include obesity, smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease. While there are treatments to diminish the effects of a stroke, there is a limited three-hour window when this drug can be administered, so you need to call 911 immediately if you suspect someone is having a stroke. Expect the person to protest—denial is common. Don’t take “no” for an answer. Insist on taking prompt action. Take note of the time the first symptoms were noticed—you’ll be asked this important question later.
Simple Stroke Test Smile-is their smile symmetrical or is one side drooping. Raise both arms-can they hold both arms up or is one arm weaker. Repeat a sentence-such as, “The sky is blue.” Can they form the words. Not all warning signs occur in every stroke. Don’t ignore the signs, even if they go away.
Five warning signs of stroke: ♥
Slurred speech or difficulty speaking or understanding what others are saying.
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Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body—can be the arm, hand, leg, face, or body.
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Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes.
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Severe and sudden headache.
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Loss of balance, dizziness, unstable walk, tripping or falling.
More information can be found at the American Stroke Foundation at www.americanstroke.org or at the American Heart Association at www.americanheart.org.
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