May is Stroke Awareness Month

May is Stroke Awareness Month

In the United States, stroke is a leading cause of death and a leading cause of long-term adult disability.
A stroke is a brain attack, cutting off vital blood flow and oxygen to the brain.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO REDUCE YOUR RISK OF STROKE?

Know your blood pressure

Find out if you have atrial fibrillation (an abnormal heartbeat)

Stop smoking

Find out if you have high cholesterol

If you are diabetic, follow instructions to keep it in control

Include exercise in your daily routine

Eat a lower salt, lower fat diet

Ask your doctor if you have circulation problems

Act FAST

USE THE FAST TEST TO REMEMBER WARNING SIGNS OF STROKE:

F = Face Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?

A = Arms Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

S = Speech Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Does the speech sound slurred or strange?

T = Time If you observe any of these signs, call 9-1-1 immediately!

Please let me know if you need your blood pressure taken. I am happy to do that whenever I am in church. If you would like to make an appointment, I will meet you at the church at a mutually convenient time. Please do all you can to reduce your risk for stroke and also know what to do if you suspect someone is having a stroke!

Your parish nurse,

Mary Ann Martin, RN