Know the signs of a stroke

This acronym can help. ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ ͏   ­ [Healthline]( [Wellness Wire]( In a Nutshell If you think only older adults need to know the signs of a stroke, think again! Stroke risk is actually increasing among young people, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which we’ll dig into later. No matter your age or the current state of your health, it’s important to know the signs so you can act FAST — acronym pun intended. • [Your guide to exercising for heart health]( • [Is it fat or water weight? Here’s how to tell]( • [Why you might have incomplete bowel movements]( Be well, Morgan Mandriota Newsletter Editor, Healthline Written by Morgan Mandriota July 15, 2024 • 3.5 min read [The FAST acronym can help you recognize signs of a stroke]( what’s got us buzzing [The FAST acronym can help you recognize signs of a stroke]( A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is restricted, and brain cells start to die, often due to a [blood clot]( or ruptured blood vessel. There are three [types of strokes]( and many subtypes under each, depending on the cause of the blockage or bleeding, which blood vessels are involved, and the affected location in the brain.️ Strokes are most common among older adults (65 and up). But according to a [2024 CDC report](, they’re becoming more common in young people over the age of 18. This could be due to a rise in risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure within that group. Spotting — and treating — a stroke as fast as possible can boost your chance of recovery and prevent long-term complications. Learning the “FAST” acronym may help:️️ - F is for face drooping. This can look like an uneven smile or facial numbness. - A is for arm weakness. For example, the arm drops down or isn’t steady if you raise it. - S is for speech difficulties, like slurred speech or an inability to repeat something. - T is for time to call 911. A stroke is a medical emergency, so seek help immediately! A person having a stroke may show one, some, or all of these symptoms. There are more [warning signs]( you should be aware of, too. For example, females are more likely to experience nausea or vomiting, confusion, general weakness, and memory problems.️️ [Treating a stroke]( ultimately depends on the type. Common treatments include medication or surgery combined with other therapies like IV fluids, oxygen, nutritional supplements, or compression stockings.️️ Because you’re more likely to have another stroke after your first, prevention is key to protecting your health! Here are some ways to lower your risk: - Monitor (and reduce) your blood sugar levels. - Try to stop smoking, if you smoke. - Limit how often you drink alcohol. - Get quality sleep. - Treat underlying conditions that may increase risk, like [Atrial fibrillation]( (AFib). - Manage your blood pressure by exercising regularly and [eating a heart-healthy diet](. [foods that may reduce stroke risk]( Great finds Know your numbers [iHealth Track Connected Blood Pressure Monitor]( [iHealth Track Connected Blood Pressure Monitor]( Monitor your blood pressure numbers from home with a machine like this one by iHealth. Just slip on the arm cuff, press the START button, and find out your blood pressure and any heart rhythm disturbances within seconds. The machine tracks up to 99 past readings and links with a free smartphone app to log unlimited readings! [SHOP NOW]( Every product we recommend has gone through either [Healthline's]( or Optum Store’s vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Store are owned by RVO Health. FROM OPTUM PERKS [Save Up to 80% on Your Prescriptions]( [Save Up to 80% on Your Prescriptions]( Pay less for your diabetes medication with Optum Perks’ free discount card.* Use it at over 64,000 pharmacies across the United States. [START SAVING [→]]( *It can not be combined with your health insurance. Healthline and Optum Perks are owned by RVO Health. By using this Optum Perks service, we may receive a tangible benefit. health stories you need What we’re reading next [] 🥑 [7 health benefits of avocado.]( This fruit is packed with nutrients and can offer a bunch of potential perks. 💦 [Can being dehydrated make you feel anxious?]( Learn the link between dehydration and anxiety, plus other signs that you need more fluids. 💩 [This probiotic supplement may relieve gas and bloating.]( Here are three reasons why Florastor can be great for restoring digestive balance. 💊 [How does zinc help your body?]( From acne management to wound healing, this trace mineral is super important for your well-being. Thanks for reading! Before we sign off, check out this mocktail recipe from reader Eric R.: “I have been alcohol-free for 4 years now. My favourite Mocktail is: 1. 8 oz of cranberry juice 2. 4 oz of sparkling water 3. Crushed ice 4. Garnish with a lemon or lime wedge and a sprig of peppermint if desired. Refreshing, not very sweet, and yummy on a hot summer day!” Until next time, [healthline]( Take care of yourself, and we’ll see you again soon! [Telegram] This edition was powered by Pilates. [fb]( [tiktok]( [X]( [youtube]( [insta]( [View in browser]( Did a friend send you this email? [Subscribe here.]( To see all newsletters, [click here.]( [Privacy]( | [Unsubscribe]( Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from a healthcare professional. Healthline encourages you to make any treatment decisions with your healthcare professional. Healthline is owned by RVO Health. © 2024 RVO Health 1101 Red Ventures Drive Fort Mill, SC 29707