Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a stroke. A stroke happens when blood flow that brings oxygen to the brain is interrupted. Without oxygen, brain cells begin to die.
Did the person suddenly lose balance or coordination?
Did their vision get blurry, or did they lose sight in one or both eyes?
Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Are the words slurred? Can they repeat the sentence correctly?
If you notice any of these signs, call 911 immediately and get to the hospital fast.
An estimated 80% of strokes can be avoided by making healthy lifestyle choices and working with a health care provider to manage stroke risks.
Get high blood pressure under control. It is the leading cause of stroke.
Don't smoke, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly.
Work with your doctor to manage your diabetes if you have it.
Treatment is most effective within 3 hours of the onset of symptoms.
If you observe any of these signs, do not wait. Every second counts.