Stroke
What are the warning signs of stroke?
To check if someone is having a stroke, ask the person to give you five. Things to look for or ask:
- Walk – Is their balance off?
- Talk – Is their speech slurred or face droopy?
- Reach – Is one side weak or numb?
- See – Is their vision all or partially lost?
- Feel – Is their headache severe?
If any of these stroke symptoms occur suddenly, call 9-1-1!
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 that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood (and oxygen) it needs, so it starts to die. Stroke is the third-leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability. However, research shows the public remains unaware of stroke's warning signs and the need for immediate medical attention, even if the symptoms subside. Call 9-1-1!
Stroke in South Carolina
South Carolina had the second highest stroke death rate in the nation in 2003 and is among a group of Southeastern states with high stroke death rates that is referred to as the “Stroke Belt.” Stroke is the third leading cause of death in South Carolina, resulting in 2,449 deaths and 14,459 hospitalizations during 2005.
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How can you reduce your risk of a stroke?
- Get your blood pressure checked and control it if it is high.
- Stop smoking.
- Control diabetes.
- Get your blood cholesterol level checked and control it if it is high.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Stay physically active.
- Pay attention to transient ischemic attacks (or TIAs). These are mini strokes and can mean that another stroke is on its way.
View the "Fast Reaction" (mov) television public service announcement (PSA).
Listen to the “Fact Reaction” (wav) radio PSA.