May is Stroke Aware­ness Month

May is Stroke Awareness Month, and Jennifer Davies, the Stroke Nurse Coordinator with Onslow Memorial Hospital, shares an important message to remember: BE FAST. Stroke is a medical emergency, and recognizing the signs early can mean the difference between recovery and long-term disability, or even life and death.

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either by a clot or a ruptured blood vessel. When brain cells are deprived of oxygen, they begin to die within minutes. That’s why quick recognition and immediate treatment are critical.

BE FAST is an easy way to remember the most common warning signs of stroke:

• B — Balance: Sudden loss of balance, dizziness, or trouble walking
• E — Eyes: Sudden vision changes in one or both eyes
• F — Face: Facial drooping or uneven smile
• A — Arm: Arm or leg weakness, especially on one side of the body
• S — Speech: Slurred speech, difficulty speaking, or trouble understanding words
• T — Time: Time to call 911 immediately

If you notice any of these symptoms—even if they come and go—call 911 right away. Do not drive yourself or wait to see if symptoms improve. Emergency medical services can begin lifesaving care on the way to the hospital and ensure you receive treatment as quickly as possible.

Many stroke risk factors are manageable, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and physical inactivity. Taking steps to manage these conditions can significantly reduce your risk of stroke.

This Stroke Awareness Month, take a moment to learn BE FAST and share it with family, friends, and coworkers. Knowing the signs and acting quickly can save a life—and help protect the brain from lasting damage.

Learn about your risk factors for stroke by attending one of the free stroke screening events at the Onslow County Main Library in Jacksonville from 9:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. If you are a business or organization and would like to offer Stroke Screening, please complete a sponsorship form.