Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention
Stroke in South Carolina
Stroke is South Carolina’s third biggest killer.
- 2,285 – The number of people who died from stroke in South Carolina in 2010.
- 14,511 – The number of people treated for stroke in South Carolina hospitals in 2011.
- $574 million – The total cost of hospitalizations due to stroke in SC in 2011.
What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When this happens, part of your brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs and starts to die.
Warning signs of a stroke:
- Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
- Sudden, severe headache with no known cause
Act Fast. Call 9-1-1!
- If you think you're having a stroke, call 9-1-1 right away – not a friend.
- Calling 9-1-1 is the best way to get to the hospital.
- Emergency medical services (EMS) staff can begin life-saving treatment immediately.
- You’re likely to receive faster treatment at the hospital if you arrive by ambulance.
- Never drive yourself or have someone drive you to the hospital unless you have no other option.
Reduce your stroke risk:
- Check your blood pressure and control it
- Stop smoking
- Manage your diabetes
- Check your cholesterol and control it
- Eat a healthy diet
- Exercise at least 30 minutes on most days of the week
Related links:
- “Fact Reaction” stroke awareness radio PSA
- Support for young stroke survivors in SC
- Stroke and Cholesterol (pdf)
- Warning Signs of Stroke (pdf)