Ok Ok, Don't have a Stroke! LITERALLY 😟

Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke. Every 3.5 minutes, someone dies from one. Stroke is the #5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability — but it doesn’t have to be.

🧠 May is Stroke Awareness Month and for as much as we joke around and say things like, "Don't have a stroke" in a heated conversation or 'That's a no brainer" when something doesn't take much thought. On some level we are aware of what a stroke is and that it is dangerous. Having a stroke IS a no brainer!

With a stroke, time = brain. Recognition of signs and symptoms are key to getting help quickly. Although men and women can present with similar symptoms there are some addition distinctions to note.

For Everyone – Think FAST:

Face drooping

Arm weakness

Speech difficulty

 Time to call 911

Additional Signs for Women

• Sudden fatigue or confusion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Hiccups
• Seizures
• General weakness

Additional Signs for Men

• Vision changes
• Difficulty walking
• Lack of coordination
• Numbness, especially on one side

Don’t ignore unusual symptoms. Time is brain. Immediate action is critical!

Prevention is key to avoiding a stroke. How many of these tips do you already do for your heart health?  Which one will you START TODAY?

Control blood pressure – the #1 stroke risk factor

Manage diabetes and cholesterol

Quit smoking and limit alcohol

Eat a heart-healthy diet (DASH or Mediterranean style)

Stay physically active

Monitor atrial fibrillation (AFib) and treat it if present

Take medications exactly as prescribed (I'm watching you 👀)

The sooner a stroke is treated, the better the chance for recovery and independence.

Stroke doesn’t wait — and neither should you.
✅ Know your risk.
✅ Know the signs.
✅ Have a plan.

If you or someone you love is at risk, contact me to review your health action plan and medication safety profile. Let’s take proactive steps today to prevent a life-changing event tomorrow.

Call me – Let’s talk stroke prevention.
🧠 Because your brain deserves the best care.