Stroke Awareness Month: The Top 7 things to know about stroke

Expert Author
Dr. Kita Williams Neurologist Nashville, Tennessee

As a board-certified neurologist specializing in headaches, I prioritize providing focused care without the constraints of insurance. By limiting the number of patients I see each day, I ensure that I am fully available for you. I strive to accommodate your schedule, offering flexibility in appointment times. Beyond addressing... more

  1. Recognizing Symptoms – FAST:
    • Face drooping
    • Arm weakness
    • Speech difficulty
    • Time to call 911 Recognizing these symptoms quickly can save lives and improve recovery outcomes.
  2. Types of Strokes:
    • Ischemic Stroke: Caused by a blockage in an artery supplying blood to the brain.
    • Hemorrhagic Stroke: Caused by bleeding in or around the brain.
    • Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a mini-stroke, it's a temporary blockage with no lasting damage but serves as a warning sign.
  3. Risk Factors:
  4. Prevention:
    • Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
    • Exercise regularly.
    • Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
    • Manage underlying conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol through medication and lifestyle changes.
  5. Treatment Options:
    • Emergency Treatments: Clot-busting medications (thrombolytics) for ischemic stroke, usually within a few hours of symptom onset.
    • Surgical Interventions: Procedures like mechanical thrombectomy to remove clots or surgery to repair blood vessels in hemorrhagic strokes.
  6. Recovery and Rehabilitation:
    • Early rehabilitation is crucial for stroke recovery, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
    • Personalized rehabilitation plans help regain skills and improve quality of life.
  7. Long-term Effects and Support:
    • Strokes can cause long-term disabilities, affecting speech, mobility, and cognitive functions.
    • Support from healthcare professionals, caregivers, and stroke support groups is essential for recovery and managing life post-stroke.

Understanding these key points can help in preventing strokes, recognizing them early, and supporting those affected by them.