Along with arthritis awareness, May serves as National Stroke Awareness month. A stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery or a blood vessel, interrupting blood flow to an area of the brain. When this happens, brain cells begin to die and brain damage occurs. Speech, movement, and memory may be affected.

The National Stroke Association provides a wealth of information about statistics, symptoms, prevention, controllable and uncontrollable risk factors, recovery, and more topics related to strokes. Anyone can have a stroke no matter their age, race, or gender. Fortunately, up to 80% of strokes can be prevented by educating yourself about the risks and what to do if you notice symptoms in yourself or someone else.

To know if someone is having a stroke, act F.A.S.T.

FACE = Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
ARMS = Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
SPEECH = Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Are the words slurred? Can he/she repeat the sentence correctly?
TIME = If the person shows any of these symptoms, time is important. Call 911, or get to the hospital fast.

Controllable Medical and Lifestyle Risk Factors
High Blood Pressure
Atrial Fibrillation
High Cholesterol
Diabetes
Tobacco Use and Smoking
Alcohol Use
Physical Inactivity
Obesity

While no one can predict who will fall victim to a stroke, being prepared to act and having hope for recovery can benefit you and those around you.

*Information from the National Stroke Association