Our Hospital

    Blog

    May 15
    Blog: American Stroke Month

    Graphic illustration of brainMay is National Stroke Awareness Month, and our Neurology team is reminding everyone to take a moment to know the signs of stroke, because minutes count.

    Stroke is a leading cause of death in our nation. There are two types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic. A transient ischemic attack (TIA) occurs with a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain producing brief symptoms (minutes to hours). An ischemic stroke occurs when the blockage is not temporary. It can occur when a blood clot travels to the brain or when the clot originates in the brain. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when blood escapes from a damaged vessel in the brain.

    Too often, you or the people around you may not realize you are suffering a stroke, so if you are at risk, make sure everyone knows these signs:
    • Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side of the body)
    • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech
    • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
    • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
    • Sudden severe headache with no known cause

    Don't wait for the symptoms to improve or worsen. If you believe you are having a stroke - or someone you know is having a stroke - call 911 immediately. Making the decision to call for medical help can make the difference in avoiding a lifelong disability.

    Prevention is key. You can reduce the risk of stroke—and many other conditions—by eating right, exercising regularly, not smoking, and—if you have these conditions—controlling your high blood pressure and managing your diabetes. For help with any of these or to learn more, please visit SaratogaHospital.org.