Stroke Awareness Month: Prevention, Risks, and How to Recognize the Signs

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is cut off. This can happen due to a blockage, such as a clot, or bleeding. When this happens, the brain cells are deprived of oxygen and start to die.
There are several risk factors associated with stroke, including high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and family history. If you have any of these risk factors, it’s important to talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk.
There are two main types of strokes: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes occur when a blood clot blocks the blood flow to the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes happen when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to call 911 right away. Time is critical when it comes to stroke treatment. The faster you get medical attention, the better your chances are of recovery. There are several symptoms of stroke, including:
Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg (usually on one side of the body)
Confusion or trouble speaking
Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Difficulty walking
Dizziness
Loss of balance or coordination
There are several treatment options available for stroke, including medication, surgery, and lifestyle changes. The best way to prevent stroke is to live a healthy lifestyle and manage any underlying medical conditions that may increase your risk. The physicians and staff at Bay Area Family Physicians appreciate the opportunity to provide your medical services. We want to strengthen communication between our office and you, our patients. As specialists in Family Medicine, we focus on primary care needs for patients of all ages – from newborns to the elderly. We diagnose and treat almost all medical conditions. Ideally, your entire family will see the same doctor, allowing both you and your doctor to establish a close, trusting relationship. Contact us today for more information!
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