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Symptoms and Risks

Symptoms of Stroke

In the event of a stroke, time equals brain cell death. Stroke is a 9-1-1 emergency, yet most people
do not take action with symptoms of stroke. Remember, stroke is a “brain attack.” You need to call
9-1-1 for a “brain attack,” just like you would for a heart attack.
Acronym to help identify stroke symptoms:

Facial Weakness - Is smile crooked or mouth drooping?
Arm Weakness - Can the person raise both arms equally?
Speech Problems - Is speech slurred or drooling?
Time is critical - Call 9-1-1! Stroke is an emergency!

According to 2010 data from the Centers of Disease Control, stroke is the number four cause of death and the leading cause of serious, long-term disability in America. The good news is there are many recent advances in stroke treatment, much of which can stop the affects of stroke IF you act fast and seek emergency treatment right away.

Stroke Risk Factors

The good news about stroke is that it is largely preventable. Prevention requires understanding about risk factors and taking action to change behavior. Certain health and lifestyle issues – called risk factors – increase your chances of having a stroke. The leading risk factor for stroke is high blood pressure. There are many other factors that also put you at risk. Risk factors like increasing age, gender, race and family history can’t be changed. Many others can be changed.

Stroke Risk Factors Chart

Metabolic Syndrome Raises Your Stroke Risk

Now that you have discovered your risk factors, it is important to know that a specific combination of these factors can lead to an increased risk of stroke.  Metabolic Syndrome is a condition that is defined by having three or more of the following risk factors:

  • High blood pressure (130/85 mm HG or higher)
  • Excess weight around the waist (more than 40 inches in men and 35 inches in women)
  • Triglyceride level at 150mg/dl or greater
  • HDL cholesterol level below 40mg/dl for men and below 50mg/dl for women
  • Elevated blood sugar or diabetes

These are all conditions that can be treated, so it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about your specific risk.