Think FAST two ways to prevent a stroke
If you think strokes only strike older people, think again. Strokes, also known as brain attacks, are on the rise in people under 40. But there are simple things that you can do, no matter what your age, to reduce your risk of a stroke – and here's a simple way to remember them:
Act FAST to prevent a stroke:
- Fruits and vegetables: Eat more. Eating five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables each day could reduce your stroke risk by as much as 30 percent.
- Activity: Get more. Daily physical activity, such as walking, dancing, swimming – even gardening – can reduce your stroke risk. Do whatever suits your style – just get moving.
- Stop smoking and stressing. Both take a toll on your health. Providence has resources to help you stop smoking and manage stress.
- Take your medicine. Heart, cholesterol, blood pressure and diabetes medicines help keep stroke risks in check. Don't stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor. Learn more about your pharmacy benefits.
The same acronym can help you recognize the signs of a stroke and act FAST if it strikes someone near and dear to you:
Act FAST to save a life:
- Face: Does the person's face look uneven? Ask the person to smile.
- Arm: Is one arm numb or drifting down? Ask the person to raise both arms.
- Speech: Is speech slurred or jumbled? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
- Time: If you notice any of these stroke signs, don't wait. Call 911 immediately!
During a stroke, every minute that goes by means more injury to the brain. We hope you'll take a minute, right now, to share this lifesaving information with the people you care about.
