(KFOR May 7, 2014) Last year, 50% of people suffering a stroke drove themselves to the hospital. On KFOR’s Lincoln Live, Lincoln Fire and Rescue Public Information Officer, Nancy Crist, tells KFOR NEWS that’s not a good idea.
During May, American Stroke Month, the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, the world’s largest voluntary health organization fighting heart disease and stroke, shares seven habits to help prevent stroke.
Up to 80% of strokes can be prevented by not smoking, making healthy food choices, getting enough physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and treating conditions such as high blood sugar, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Reduce the Risk of a Recurrent Stroke
Not all strokes can be prevented and people who have had a stroke are at high risk of having a second one. In fact, about one in every four stroke survivors will have a second one. Stroke survivors should work with their doctor on a plan to reduce their secondary stroke risk factors as there may be lifestyle changes and medications, such as aspirin, that may help prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of a second stroke. It is important to talk to your doctor before starting an aspirin regimen, because aspirin may not be appropriate for everyone.
Know the Signs of a Stroke
Each year, almost 800,000 people have a stroke. Knowing how to recognize a stroke emergency is key to getting life-saving medical attention when every minute matters. Use the acronym F.A.S.T. to remember the most common signs of stroke:
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