Recently, we have been increasing our efforts to raise awareness on stroke. A stroke occurs either when
the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain burst causing
damage to a part of the brain. It is the third leading cause of death in our country and the primary cause
of severe long-term disability. Unfortunately, this cardiovascular disease and its risk factors are still not
being taken seriously by our community. A stroke is sometimes referred to as a “brain attack”. Many
health professionals have suggested that it may be more appropriate to use this name as it more
accurately describes what is occurring and emphasizes the severity and urgency of the problem.
Individuals are at risk of getting a stroke if they have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes or
smoke cigarettes. If they have experienced a “mini stroke” or transient ischemic attack (TIA), that also
puts them at risk for a future more serious stroke.
One of the most important things we can do to reduce the prevalence of stroke is to increase
information and awareness on the symptoms and encourage, family and friends to respond to those
symptoms as a life threatening emergency. Stroke symptoms include:
- Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arms, or legs, especially on one side of the
body - Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding others
- Sudden problems seeing out of one or both eyes
- Sudden problems walking, dizziness, loss of coordination or balance
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause
A recent study showed that the greatest delay in responding to this brain attack was not due to the
response of emergency personnel or the hospital. It was due to the delay in making the call to 911.
Receiving treatment within 90 minutes of stroke symptoms onset is optimal for improved outcomes.
Time is crucial for getting the best treatment and improving the odds for a more favorable outcome.