As May unfolds, so does an essential observance in healthcare: Stroke Awareness Month. Throughout this month, Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) and its Eastern Kentucky Neuroscience Center are working to shine a spotlight on understanding stroke causes and risk factors, prevention, treatment, life after stroke and the importance of awareness.
A Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, either by a clot blocking an artery (ischemic stroke) or by a blood vessel bursting and causing bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). The consequences of both can be devastating, leading to disability or even death. Being able to identify stroke symptoms promptly can make a huge difference in saving lives and reducing the risk of long-term disability. PMC emphasizes the acronym “BE FAST” as a simple tool for recognizing stroke signs:
B– Balance: Sudden loss of balance or dizziness; E– Eyes: Vision changes; F– Face Drooping: One side of the face drooping or numb; A– Arms: Arm or leg weakness, specifically on one side; S– Speech: Slurred speech or hard to understand; T– Time: If any of these signs are present, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
In addition, keeping track of when symptoms began can help the healthcare team diagnose and treat patients more effectively. Stroke Awareness Month serves as a vital reminder of the impact a stroke can have on individuals, families and communities. By increasing awareness, promoting prevention strategies and advocating for timely treatment, the burden of strokes can be reduced and outcomes can be improved for stroke survivors. By keeping these things in mind, more lives can be saved in the fight against strokes.
For more information, https://www.pikevillehospital.org/stroke-center/ or call 606-430-2208.
