A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted. Every 40 seconds someone in the United States suffers from a stroke, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Life after a stroke often brings new challenges for stroke survivors, their families, and caregivers.
Without prompt medical intervention, strokes can cause lasting brain damage or even death. Time is critical for stroke treatment and recognizing the signs and symptoms of a stroke can be lifesaving. Remembering the acronym BE FAST can be an effective way to identify a stroke:
Balance – Sudden loss of balance or coordination
Eyes – Sudden vision issues
Face – Drooping or numbness on one side of the face
Arm – Weakness or numbness in one arm
Speech – Difficulty speaking or slurring words
Time – Call 911 immediately if you notice any of the above symptoms
There are many factors that increase the risk of having a stroke. While some risk factors, such as age and family history, cannot be changed, many strokes can be prevented through healthy lifestyle choices. Maintaining good blood pressure, eating a healthy diet, staying active, not smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and managing diabetes all play a crucial role in stroke prevention. To better understand what you can do to prevent a stroke and for stroke survivors to navigate life after a stroke, Hannibal Regional is thrilled to host a Stroke Education Expo in honor of Stroke awareness month. This event will take place on May 28, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the Hannibal Conference Center, located just inside Hannibal Regional Medical Group. Learn from healthcare professionals and explore a variety of booths offering helpful resources on stroke prevention and support for survivors and caregivers.
To learn more about the Hannibal Regional Stroke Education Expo, please call 573-629-3444.