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10 Facts to Know on World Stroke Day

October 12, 2018
Lenora Alabi
October 29th is World Stroke Day. Now is the perfect time to learn more about strokes. Here are 10 facts you should know about strokes.

#10 – While most stroke victims are 65 or older, one out of four people are younger. Strokes are not just a health concern in the elderly. They can happen at any age.

#9 – There are several types of strokes. Ischemic strokes, the most common type, involve narrowed or clogged arteries in the head and neck. Hemorrhagic strokes occur when a blood vessel ruptures. Intracerebral hemorrhages occur inside the brain, while subarachnoid hemorrhages occur outside of the brain.

#8 – Smoking increases your risk of having a stroke. The biggest risk factor, however, is having high blood pressure. It's important to have blood pressure checked regularly and take measures to lower it if it is high.

#7 – According to the CDC, in the span of just two minutes, an average of three people in the U.S. have a stroke. In four minutes, one person dies after having had a stroke.

#6 – Over 50 percent of stroke victims lose mobility after a stroke. Walkers, canes, or wheelchairs may be needed after the stroke.

#5 – While rare, a stroke involving the basilar artery can lead to full paralysis. This is known as locked-in syndrome. It's the hardest stroke to survive and recovery is very challenging.

#4 – Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) can be a warning sign of an impending stroke. Also called a ministroke, a TIA is a temporary blockage that can affect speech, create muscle weakness, and cause dizziness, headaches, and vision issues.

#3- After a stroke, the recovery is ongoing. People who have had a stroke don't heal over a few months. The process and steps to prevent another stroke last a lifetime.

#2 – In each second following a stroke, more than 30,000 brain cells die each second. This is why it's so important to get medical care immediately.

#1 – FAST is the easiest way to remember the signs of a stroke. Face, Arms, Speech, and Time is the way to teach yourself how to quickly identify a stroke and get help.

If your parent has a stroke, support at home is essential. After weeks of rehabilitation and recovery in a nursing home or hospital, your mom or dad will need home care services. You may want to provide some of that care, but make sure you have the time and stamina.

Elder care services that help after a stroke include assistance with personal care and grooming, meals, housework, and transportation. Arrange this care as early as possible by contacting us today!

IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING HIRING ELDER CARE IN OLD TOWN, IL, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT BRIGHTSTAR CARE CHICAGO. CALL TODAY: 312.382.8888.