May is National Stroke Awareness Month

When stroke happens, minutes matter. Similar to how a heart attack blocks blood flow to the heart, a stroke happens when a clot or broken blood vessel stops or limits blood flow to the brain - a brain attack.

The American Heart Association reports that for every minute during an untreated stroke, 1.9 million brain cells are lost.

To remember signs of a stroke, think BE FAST:

B: Sudden Balance lost

E: Sudden Eyesight loss

F: Face drooping

A: Arm weakness

S: Speech difficulty

T: Time to call 911

"Regardless of where someone lives, whenever there are signs of a possible stroke, we want them to call 911 and get to the nearest emergency room as quickly as possible," said Randy Bell, MD, Avera neurosurgeon and Medical Director of Avera's Comprehensive Stroke Program.

Getting patients to the proper level of care as quickly as possible is crucial for the best possible stroke outcomes. For a serious condition like stroke, local hospitals benefit from the strength of the Avera system, with expertise that's immediately available via telemedicine. Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center in Sioux Falls has been certified as a Comprehensive Stroke Center by DNV since 2023.

In the local emergency room, patients receive initial diagnostic imaging in the CT scanner plus effective medications for fast intervention.

If a higher level of care is needed, a confirmed stroke patient may be transported by ground ambulance or Careflight to receive additional treatment, whether that's a medication regimen or an interventional neuroendovascular procedure, as well as ICU care and rehab.

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability. Prevention is the best medicine, and up to 80% of strokes are preventable.

Risk factors include age, obesity, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, and heart and/or vascular disease. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, high stress, a sedentary lifestyle and a diet high in processed foods also add to stroke risk.

Follow these health habits to lower your risk:

• Get your blood pressure checked, and make sure your blood pressure is under control, through diet, exercise and medications. Using a home blood pressure monitor can help you track your numbers carefully.
• Eat a healthy diet that's low in fat and high in fiber, fruits and vegetables.
• Be active - 30 minutes of activity five days a week is what's recommended, and it can be as simple as a daily walk.
• If you have diabetes, maintain good control and take medications as recommended.
• Manage any other chronic conditions carefully with your care team, including high cholesterol.
• Stop smoking or vaping.
• Avoid alcohol consumption or drink only in moderation.

The best way to stay on top of risk factors and preventive measures is a yearly checkup with a primary care provider.

Learn more at Avera.org/Stroke