Today Is World Stroke Day. Know The Signs

World Stroke Day (October 29) is a day that puts emphasis on the serious nature and high rates of stroke. The day is also observed to raise awareness of the prevention and treatment of strokes.

A great place to start is knowing the early warning signs of stroke. Knowing these signs increase your chances of survival.  Early symptoms of a stroke usually happen suddenly. These symptoms include:

• Numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
• Confusion or trouble talking
• Trouble seeing
• Dizziness or trouble walking
• Severe headache

If you or a loved one is having any of these symptoms, it’s important to act F.A.S.T.

It’s also important to know that strokes can be prevented. In fact, up to 90% of all strokes can be prevented by addressing certain risk factors. These risk factors include hypertension, diet, smoking, and exercise. Through an emphasis on prevention, the World Stroke Association hopes to cut the number of strokes in half by 2030.