Doctor's Notes by Brandy Hoermann
By Brandy Hoermann: Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Because strokes can happen to anyone at any age, often without warning, rapid recognition and timely intervention could mean the difference between survival or long-term disability.
What is a stroke?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing the brain from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die within minutes, which is why stroke is considered a medical emergency.
There are two primary types of stroke. The most common type is an ischemic stroke, caused by a blocked blood vessel. The second is a hemorrhagic stroke, caused by bleeding in the brain. Both require immediate medical attention.
“BE FAST” when responding to a stroke
Medical experts use the phrase “BE FAST” to help people remember the most common stroke symptoms. It is simple, easy to remember and can save lives:
- B stands for Balance: Sudden dizziness, trouble walking or loss of coordination may signal a stroke.
- E stands for Eyes: Blurred vision, double vision or sudden loss of sight in one or both eyes should never be ignored.
- F stands for Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop or appear uneven?
- A stands for Arm: Sudden weakness or numbness in an arm or leg, especially on one side of the body, can be a warning sign.
- S stands for Speech: Slurred speech, confusion or difficulty understanding simple conversation may indicate a stroke.
- T stands for Time: If you notice any of these signs, call 911 immediately.
When it comes to stroke treatment, timing is critical.
Quick action matters
Unfortunately, many people delay treatment because they are unsure whether their symptoms are serious or because they hope the symptoms will pass. For adults, some stroke symptoms may also be mistaken for fatigue, dehydration or normal aging. That uncertainty can be dangerous.
Doctors say it’s better to be safe than sorry. By calling 911, paramedics can begin care immediately and alert the hospital stroke team before arrival.
One treatment option, a clot-busting medication called tPA, works best when administered within three to four-and-a-half hours after symptoms begin. For patients experiencing larger clots, doctors may perform a mechanical thrombectomy—a specialized procedure that removes the clot directly from the blood vessel. In certain cases, this procedure may still help patients up to 24 hours after symptoms begin.
Remember, the sooner treatment begins, the greater the chance of minimizing brain damage.
Recovery and rehabilitation after a stroke
Stroke recovery often continues long after a patient leaves the hospital. Rehabilitation plays a major role in helping survivors regain independence and improve their quality of life.
Depending on the severity of the stroke, patients may need physical therapy to improve strength and movement, occupational therapy to relearn daily activities or speech therapy to address communication and swallowing difficulties.
Early rehabilitation is especially important. Research consistently shows that patients who begin therapy sooner often experience better outcomes.
Recovery may also involve supporting caregivers, spouses and adult children who suddenly find themselves helping a loved one navigate physical or emotional changes. Support systems matter, and many stroke survivors continue making meaningful recoveries months and even years after treatment.
Prevention starts with everyday choices
While some stroke risk factors cannot be changed, many can be managed through healthy habits and regular medical care.
High blood pressure remains the leading risk factor for stroke. Other major risks include diabetes, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, smoking, vaping, obesity, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol use and poor diet.
Small lifestyle changes can make a significant difference. Regular exercise, balanced meals, taking medications as prescribed and attending routine medical checkups can all help to reduce stroke risk.
Education is key
Stroke awareness is for everyone. Children, spouses, neighbors and caregivers should all know the warning signs. In many cases, another person is the first to recognize that something is wrong.
This Stroke Awareness Month, take a few minutes to encourage your family to “BE FAST” and learn to recognize the signs of stroke. Save them in your phone and share them with loved ones. It’s simple information that could someday save a life. Because when it comes to stroke, fast action is the best protection.
Brandy Hoermann is the stroke coordinator at St. David’s Georgetown Hospital.