Did you know, there are about 4.5 million deaths a year, in the world, from strokes and over about 9 million stroke survivors. It is estimated that by 2023, there will be a 30% increase in people who experience a stroke, compared to 1983. (Wolfe, 2000) It is important to not only be aware of signs of a stroke, but also learn how to prevent strokes from happening!
“Time lost is brain lost. Getting treatment fast can reduce stroke-related brain damage and increase the chances of survival and recovery. Treatments are most effective when stroke is recognized and diagnosed within 3 hours (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022).”
Here are five signs to look for when someone may be having a stroke:
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or increased difficulty understand speech
- Severe headache
- Sudden difficulty with walking
- Sudden numbness in the face, arms, or legs, especially if it’s on one side of the body
(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022)
How can you help prevent a stroke? Add exercise to your routine, look at changing your diet, and try to adopt healthier lifestyle choices. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022) Quitting smoking and decreasing alcohol intake are also ways to help prevent a stroke from happening.
Call Home Therapy Solutions to ask how our physical and occupational therapists can help you, or your loved one, regain as much independence as possible after a stroke. 218-230-2171
Resources Utilized:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, May 4). Stroke communications kit. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved May 10, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/stroke/communications_kit.htm
Wolfe, C. D. A. (2000, January 1). Impact of stroke. Oxford Academic. Retrieved May 10, 2022, from https://academic.oup.com/bmb/article/56/2/275/303250?login=true
