May is National Stroke Awareness Month

Stroke is a leading cause of disability and the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. and Ohio, but there are steps we can take to reduce the risk.

"The key is recognizing the signs and taking preventative measures to keep yourself in good health," said Dr. Mary DiOrio, medical director at the Ohio Department of Health (ODH).

Most strokes - 80% - are preventable. Understanding the risks of stroke and how they're connected to other health concerns is key to prevention.

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar can damage and narrow blood vessels. This can lead to blood clots or bleeding in the brain, which can cause a stroke. Heart problems like an irregular heartbeat can also raise the risk of stroke.

Having more than one of these health problems, plus habits like smoking or not being active, makes the risk even higher. Working with your healthcare team can help manage these issues and lower the chance of having a stroke.

When someone is experiencing a stroke, it's considered a medical emergency. Know what to look for and take action, or "BE FAST."

• Balance loss.
• Eyesight change.
• Face drooping.
• Arm weakness.
• Speech difficulty.
• Time to call 911.

Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body and sudden severe headaches are also warning signs.

If you notice someone experiencing any of these signs, the most important action you can take is to call 911 immediately. Doing so helps decrease the chance of disability or death from stroke.

"Cardiovascular conditions are often related due to an overlap of lifestyle-related risk factors, such as having obesity, a poor diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and alcohol use," said Dr. DiOrio. "It's important to prioritize healthy lifestyle habits now to prevent more serious medical events like heart attack and stroke."

Fortunately, there are a variety of prevention methods you can utilize now. Make healthy eating choices, make time for regular physical activity, and work with your healthcare provider to prevent and manage risk factors.

Additionally, the Ohio Coverdell Stroke Program works to improve stroke treatment at 89 hospitals across the state. The program provides quality improvement support and resources to emergency medical service providers, hospital stroke teams, community health workers, and other healthcare providers to provide high-quality stroke care and reduce the burden of stroke among Ohioans.

"Don't wait to take action and prevent stroke," said Dr. DiOrio. "Get the conversation started with your healthcare provider and find what works best for you."

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