May is National Stroke Awareness Month

Are you at risk of having a stroke?  Find out during WakeMed's free Stroke Prevention & Education Screening!

Saturday, May 19, 2007
10 am to 3 pm
Crabtree Valley Mall, first floor, center court (in front of the old Lord & Taylor store)

One of the most important risk factors for stroke is high blood pressure (140/90 mm Hg or higher).  However, there are no warning signs of specific symptoms to indicate you have high blood pressure.  You should have it checked regularly - at least once a year.  Stop by for a free blood pressure check and information on preventing stroke.

What is a stroke?

A stroke affects the arteries leading to and within the brain and occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain either bursts or is blocked by a clot.  When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so it starts to die.

What are the warning signs?

• Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg (especially on one side of the body)
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause

If you think someone is having a stroke, look for these FAST signs:

• Face - Does the face look uneven?  Ask the person to smile.
• Arm - Does one arm drift down?  Ask the person to raise both arms.
• Speech - Does his or her speech sound strange?  Ask the person to answer a simple question.
• Time - If you observe any of these signs, then it's time to call 9-1-1.

Tips to Help Reduce Your Blood Pressure

• Lose excess weight.
• Exercise Daily - get 30 minutes or more of aerobic activity most days of the week.
• Change Your Diet - eat a low-fat diet rich in vegetables, fruits and low-fat dairy foods, and reduce your sodium intake.
• Limit Sodium - try to take in less than 2,000 mg of sodium a day.  Read food labels to know how much sodium you are consuming.  Put away the saltshaker.  Try other spices and herbs to add flavor to your foods.
• Quit Smoking - one of the best steps you can take to improve your blood pressure, heart and brain health.
• Reduce Stress - through regular exercise, better time management, meditation or laughter, find the best outlet to reduce your stress.