Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S. It occurs when the blood flow that goes to the brain gets interrupted by a clot or rupture, leaving the brain without the oxygen supply it needs. World Stroke Day is recognized to raise awareness about the high rates of stroke. This day is also the perfect opportunity to learn how to identify the symptoms of a stroke and how to prevent them. The professionals at Greenville Health Care, urgent care Greenville NC, have summarized the symptoms of a stroke and what you need to do when they present.

Causes

Although several factors contribute to a stroke, the professionals at Greenville Health Care, urgent care Greenville NC, agree that some of the most common causes include:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Tobacco use
• Genetics
• Heart disease
• Obesity

How to Identify a Stroke

Strokes can be fatal, which is why it’s crucial to understand the symptoms of a stroke and how to react when they present. A stroke is best treated when the signs are identified and diagnosed within three hours of the first symptom.

• Numbness in the face
• Blurred vision
• Trouble walking
• Sudden severe headache
• Loss of balance
• Dizziness and confusion

Identify a Stroke F.A.S.T

Face: Did one side of their face droop? You can spot a stroke by asking the person to smile. By doing this you can easily identify if one side of their face looks like it dropped.

Arms: Can they raise both arms? If they are having a stroke, one arm will feel weak or numb.

Speech: Can they repeat a phrase? Ask the person to say a simple phrase. They have to be able to repeat every word without problems.

Time: Experts in urgent care Greenville NC suggest that if the individual presents the symptoms mentioned above, it’s time to call 911. Remember that a simple call can save their life.

Prevention at Urgent Care Greenville NC

Exercise more: Having a workout routine not only makes you look great but also helps you feel your best. The professionals in urgent care Greenville NC say that you don’t need to engage in all sports but rather find an activity that you enjoy doing. It’s enough with 30 minutes, five days a week.

Eat better foods: Having healthier eating habits can make a difference and prevent a stroke. A diet full of vegetables, fruits, and high-fiber food will help you maintain an adequate weight while preventing a stroke.

Better habits: Cutting tobacco consumption will mark a before and after in your health history. Lowering the use of nicotine will keep your blood pressure at a healthy range, as well as prevent unpredicted events such as a stroke.

Keep up with underlying conditions: Lastly, a routine checkup is also beneficial to prevent a stroke. By booking an appointment with one of our health specialists in urgent care Greenville NC, you can manage underlying conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

Greenville Health Center | Urgent Care Greenville NC

We are a no-appointment Greenville NC family practice, and our services include routine medical care, vaccinations, minor surgery, and more. Visit our website to learn about all our services and book an appointment to see one of our specialists today.