Act F.A.S.T – Know the Signs of a Stroke

Stay On Top of Your Health

Lifestyle changes are an effective way to lower your risk of a stroke. Here are five simple tips to lower your risk.

1. Lower Your Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is the leading cause of strokes. Your blood pressure can often be controlled by making lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet and exercising, but sometimes these aren’t enough. If you suffer from high blood pressure, talk with your doctor about your treatment options and whether medication is right for you.

2. Quit Smoking

If you smoke or use tobacco products, you double your risk of having a stroke. Not only does smoking raise your blood pressure, it also lowers the amount of oxygen your blood transports through the body. TRS health plan participants have access to several tobacco cessation resources that can help you quit tobacco for good.

3. Reduce Alcohol Intake

One important step in managing your blood pressure and reducing your risk of a stroke is cutting out or reducing your alcohol consumption. Excessive alcohol use can raise your blood pressure and cause irregular heartbeats that increase your risk for blood clots.

4. Get Moving

Just 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise a day can help you improve heart health, lower your high blood pressure and reduce your risk for a stroke.

5. Eat Healthy

Eating a diet consisting of lean proteins and fibrous vegetables can help you lose weight and lower your risk for a stroke. Eat foods like fish, leafy greens, whole grains and fruits. These foods are full of healthy fats, high in fiber and rich in vitamins and minerals.

Act F.A.S.T. - Know the Signs

It’s important to know the signs of a stroke so you can take action. Getting immediate help can greatly impact recovery and could even be the difference between life and death. Use the letters F-A-S-T to remember how to spot signs of a stroke and know when to call 911.

• Face Drooping – Face drooping on one side. Ask the person to smile and see if their smile is uneven or lopsided.
• Arm or Leg Weakness – Arm or leg weakness on one side. Ask the person to raise both arms and see if one arm drifts downward.
  
• Speech Difficult – The person has slurred speech or is unable to speak. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
  
• Time to Call 911 – If the person shows all these symptoms, even if one or more of the symptoms go away, call 911 immediately.

In some cases, a person can have a seizure during a stroke. If that happens, there are several actions you can take while waiting for emergency services.

• Move sharp objects away from the person.
• Don’t try to hold them down or stop movements.
• Roll them on their side to help keep their airway clear.
• Don’t put anything in their mouth – contrary to popular myth, you can’t swallow your tongue during a seizure.

Reference:
American Stroke Association