National Stroke Awareness Month

During Stroke Awareness Month, it is important for each of us to be reminded of the five most common signs and symptoms of stroke, what to do when the classic signs are present and, of course, prevention. Anyone at any time, regardless of race, sex or age can suffer a stroke. A stroke occurs every 40 seconds and takes a life approximately every four minutes. Stroke, an obstruction in blood flow, or the rupture of an artery that feeds the brain, is the fourth leading cause of death in the US and the leading cause of serious, long-term adult disability. However, even with the frequency of occurrence, a recent study by the CDC found that only 38 percent of people can correctly identify all five symptoms of stroke and then knew to call 911 immediately when symptoms are present. Common stroke symptoms include:

  1. sudden numbness or weakness of face, arm or leg usually on one side of the body;
  2. sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding others;
  3. sudden impaired vision in one or both eyes;
  4. sudden loss of balance, coordination or dizziness;
  5. and/or sudden headache with no known cause.

If you think someone may be having a stroke, act FAST and do this simple test:

  • 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 phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
  • Time: If you observe any of these signs, call 911 immediately.

Every minute counts! If you or someone you know shows any symptoms of a stroke, call 911 immediately. Medical personnel will try to stop an ischemic stroke while it is happening by quickly dissolving the blood clot or by stopping the bleeding. Medications are most effective in the first three hours. For hemorrhagic stroke, immediate surgery may be needed. Early treatment may reduce long-term disability. At Portneuf, we recognize that time is valuable to life and to the quality of life. With the goal of administering the right care at the right time as quickly and effectively as possible, we have added strokes alerts to our #1 priority alerts in the emergency department. Top priority alerts include trauma, heart attacks and strokes. When paramedics in the field contact the emergency department, we implement an all hands alert. All necessary medical personnel immediately and precisely mobilize and are ready and waiting for the patient when they arrive. We know life is precious and every minute counts. As a Primary Plus Stroke certified facility, our stroke alert protocols model similar protocols of designated comprehensive stroke centers across the country.

While it is common to think otherwise, strokes can be prevented. The chances of having a stroke increase as risk factors increase. While certain risk factors such as age, gender, race and family history cannot be controlled, other risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, tobacco use, smoking, physical inactivity, obesity; untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome and excessive alcohol use can be controlled. In the event of an emergency, Portneuf Medical Center’s Emergency Department is ready and proud to serve all of Southeastern Idaho. We diagnose and treat a wide range of medical ailments from illnesses and minor injuries to major medical emergencies. Our highly trained staffed, complete with air transportation resources, are ready 24 hours a day, seven days a week to handle your minor and major medical needs.

Click here to learn more about the signs of stroke, how to reduce your risk of stroke, and rehabilitation.