When it comes to recognizing the signs of stroke and getting help, the faster, the better. The American Stroke Association estimates about 1.9 million brain cells die every minute a stroke goes untreated. That’s why prompt recognition and treatment is so important. It could mean the difference between you or someone you love making a full recovery and living with a long-term disability, or worse.

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a top cause of disability in the U.S. Many people think a stroke happens in the heart but it’s actually a disorder that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. Stroke typically happens when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot (ischemic stroke) or bursts (hemorrhagic stroke). About 87 percent of strokes occur when a blood vessel is blocked, but there are other types as well. When blood flow is hindered in any way, the brain and brain cells begin to die.

“Because stroke impacts the brain, it has the ability to change how your body functions in so many ways,” says Ryan Cheung, D.O., a neurologist on the medical staff at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas and Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Plano. “Everything from how you move and mentally process information to how you see and handle your emotions can be affected.”

Stroke is an EMERGENCY. Knowing BE FAST or RAPIDO is Essential!

Stroke can happen to anyone, at any age and at any time, so it’s important for everyone to know the warning signs and what to do. BE FAST is a way of thinking about stroke symptoms and is a reminder to act quickly when stroke is suspected. Here’s what to look for:

Balance Loss: Sudden loss of balance, staggering gait, or dizziness

Eyesight Changes: Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, blurriness, or double vision

Face Drooping: Drooping on one side of the face or an uneven smile

Arm Weakness: Loss of strength or sensation in one arm (or leg), or an arm/leg hanging down

Speech Difficulty: Slurring of words, difficulty understanding what is being said, or sudden confusion

Terrible headache/Time: Severe headache that intensifies within seconds to a minute — and a reminder for all these symptoms that it’s time to call 9-1-1

Hispanic-Latino adults are at high risk for stroke. The Spanish-speaking community can use the acronym RAPIDO to remember warning signs of a stroke.

If you or someone you know is experiencing stroke symptoms, be quick in calling 9-1-1.

“It’s important to also note the time when any symptoms first appear or when last well,” according to Cheung. “Time is critical in stroke care. Safe medical treatment options can be offered that may reduce the long-term effects of a stroke if they are administered soon after its onset.”

In the treatment of ischemic stroke, Cheung says a patient may be eligible for clot-dissolving medication or a clot-removal procedure. These treatments have the potential for slowing the progression of ischemia (brain cell death in the absence of blood flow) or reversing damage when administered or performed quickly.

Stroke Risk Factors You Can Control

Some stroke risks are changeable. Cheung offers these steps you can take to help prevent a stroke from happening:

• If you have high blood pressure, lower it and work with your health care provider to manage it.
• Find out if you have atrial fibrillation (AFib). AFib is an irregular heartbeat disorder that can lead to blood clots and cause a stroke.
• If you smoke, stop. Smoking doubles the risk for stroke.
• If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Heavy drinking can increase your risk for stroke.
• Lower your cholesterol (the fat-like substance in your blood).
• If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar level under control.
• Exercise daily, if able. Even a brisk walk or yard work can improve your health and may reduce your stroke risk.
• Cut down on sodium and saturated and trans-fat. By reducing these, you can lower your risk for not only stroke, but high blood pressure and heart disease too.
• Manage stress. It’s good for your health and well-being.

Texas Health is committed to supporting the highest level of stroke care. Learn more about stroke and find an accredited Texas Health stroke center near you.

In less than 5-minutes determine if you could be at risk for stroke with our free stroke risk assessment.