It's American Stroke Month: Know stroke signs and save lives

With American Stroke Month underway, HCA Florida Healthcare and the American Heart Association are urging everyone to learn the signs of a stroke and take immediate action to save lives. Recognizing symptoms and responding quickly can make a big difference in outcomes for stroke victims.

"Every second counts when it comes to stroke," said Dr. Sneha Jacob, a vascular neurologist at HCA Florida Osceola Hospital. "By knowing the signs and acting quickly, you can help save a life and reduce the risk of long-term disability."

Strokes are a leading cause of death and disability, but prompt treatment can greatly improve survival rates and recovery. The American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of the F.A.S.T. acronym to identify stroke symptoms:

• Face drooping: Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile.
• Arm weakness: Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
• Speech difficulty: Is speech slurred, are they unable to speak, or are they hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
• Time to call 911: If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 immediately.

People with an irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation, or AFib, are up to five times more likely to have a stroke as those who don’t have AFib.

“Atrial fibrillation is the most common heart rhythm condition we see,” said Dr. Steven Hoff, a cardiothoracic surgeon at HCA Florida Osceola Hospital. “We create custom solutions for each patient that may include medication and/or surgical procedures. I urge my AFib patients to be diligent about following their doctor’s orders to manage their condition and minimize their stroke risk.”

In addition to recognizing stroke symptoms, doctors recommend a heart-healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of stroke. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco use, and managing conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

“Approximately every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke. During Stroke Awareness Month, we at the American Heart Association emphasize the critical importance of understanding stroke prevention,” said Emory Parkins, marketing and communications director for the American Heart Association Orlando. “By raising awareness, we empower individuals to recognize the signs of stroke and take proactive steps to reduce their risk. Together, we can save lives and improve health outcomes for everyone."