Stroke Symptoms
What does BEFAST stand for?
B - balance
E - eyes
F - facial droop
A - arm weakness
S - slurred speech
T - time
What are 3 lifestyle change can reduce the risk of stroke?
Quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, treating high blood pressure, limit alcohol intake, manage chronic conditions, and exercising regularly.
What is the first step to take when a stroke is suspected?
Call 911 immediately for emergency help.
How many minutes after stroke symptoms start should you seek medical help?
Within 60 minutes (the "golden hour").
What does "transient ischemic attack" (TIA) mean?
A "mini-stroke" that temporarily blocks blood flow to the brain
What is a common symptom of a stroke involving vision?
Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes or double vision.
What CHRONIC medical condition increases the risk of a stroke?
High blood pressure (Hypertension).
What is the common medication given immediately to stroke patients?
Tenecteplase (TNK)
How does exercise reduce the risk of stroke?
Regular exercise helps control blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight, all of which reduce stroke risk
What are the 3 kinds of strokes?
Ischemic, hemorrhagic, transient
What speech symptom is often seen in stroke patients?
Slurred or garbled speech, difficulty speaking or understanding speech
Which ethnic groups have a higher risk of stroke?
African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans
What surgical procedure can be used to treat stroke?
Carotid endarterectomy or a thrombectomy to remove clots.
What is the role of diet in stroke prevention?
A healthy diet low in salt, fats, and cholesterol can help control blood pressure and reduce stroke risk.
What is the leading cause of death among stroke patients?
Brain damage caused by the stroke
What does an "arm weakness" in a stroke refer to?
One arm may feel weak or numb, and the person might have trouble lifting it or holding it up
What is the connection between high blood pressure and stroke?
High blood pressure puts extra strain on the blood vessels, increasing the risk of a clot or rupture
How does physical therapy help stroke patients?
It helps patients regain movement, improve strength, and relearn daily activities.
Why is managing stress important for stroke prevention?
Chronic stress can raise blood pressure and contribute to other stroke risk factors
Which age group is most at risk for stroke?
Adults over the age of 55
What is the primary symptom of a "brainstem stroke"?
Loss of coordination, difficulty swallowing, double vision, or dizziness
How does smoking affect stroke risk?
Smoking damages blood vessels, increases clot formation, and reduces oxygen in the blood, raising stroke risk.
What is thrombolysis?
The use of medications to dissolve blood clots and restore blood flow to the brain
What does "controlling cholesterol" mean for stroke prevention?
Lowering high cholesterol levels helps prevent plaque buildup in blood vessels, reducing stroke risk.
What percentage of strokes are ischemic?
About 87% of strokes are ischemic.