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Stroke cases are so prevalent in South Carolina and Georgia that medical professionals call the area “the buckle of the stroke belt.” Chronic health problems, such as diabetes and high cholesterol, that often lead to strokes have increasing rates in the South than other parts of the country.
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted and brain cells begin to die. A stroke is sometime called a “brain attack” because, like a heart attack, it is a medical emergency and results from interrupted blood flow.
But there are measures you can take to prevent strokes and identify them early on. The first thing to do is recognize the symptoms of stroke, which include sudden weakness, numbness or loss of vision because of the disturbance in the brain’s blood supply. Many people try to wait, but don’t wait to call 911. And don’t get a ride from a family member or friend. Studies show patients with strokes get much faster and better outcomes if they come to the hospital in an ambulance. Once at the hospital doctors can administer a clot buster, but for best results it must be administered within three hours of the onset of the stroke.
WARNING SIGNS OF A STROKE
The American Stroke Association says the key warning signs of stroke are:
- Sudden numbness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech.
- Sudden trouble seeing.
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness or loss of balance.
- Sudden severe headache.
Article provided by St. Joseph’s Candler Hospital.
