LIMA, OH (WLIO) - It is the lack of blood to the brain that can cause mild to moderate damage and even death if not addressed immediately.
May is Stroke Awareness Month, and local health officials want people to recognize the causes and symptoms of stroke. High blood pressure is at the top of the list as a cause of strokes. Warning signs and symptoms include loss of balance, speech difficulty, and facial drooping. It is crucial to get medical attention if you suspect a stroke.
"Time is brain. So if you, yourself, notice any of these symptoms happening to you, or if you notice a family member, or a friend exhibiting any of these signs or symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately," explained Mariah Lineberry, physician assistant at Mercy Health St. Rita's.
Just remember "BE FAST" in spotting signs of a stroke:
- B: Balance Loss
- E: Eyesight Changes
- F: Facial Drooping
- A: Arm Weakness
- S: Speech Difficulty
- T: Time to Call 9-1-1
You can learn more about strokes on the Mercy Health website at https://www.mercy.com/health-care-services/neurology/conditions/stroke.
