BE FAST for Stroke Prevention: Understand the Risks and Take Action

Strokes are a leading cause of disability and death worldwide, affecting 1 in 4 people at some point in their lifetime. However, the good news is that up to 80% of strokes can be prevented through informed lifestyle changes and medical interventions.

In our latest infographic, “BE FAST: Your Guide to Stroke Prevention,” we share the data and essential steps you can take to reduce your stroke risk.

The Silent Threat of Strokes

Strokes often come without warning, with 10% of Americans experiencing “silent strokes” that go unnoticed without a brain scan. The majority of strokes (87%) are ischemic, caused by blood clots blocking blood flow to the brain. Recognizing the risk factors and early signs of stroke can be life-saving.

Myth vs. Fact on Stroke Prevention

Myth: Strokes cannot be prevented.
Fact: Lifestyle changes and medical interventions can prevent up to 80% of strokes.

Know Your Risk of Stroke

Risk factors for stroke include vascular disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and obesity. High blood pressure alone can increase your stroke risk by 2 to 4 times. Managing these risks through healthy lifestyle choices and regular medical check-ups is essential.

BE FAST to Spot a Stroke 

The BE FAST acronym helps you remember the urgent signs of a stroke:

  • Balance: Sudden loss of balance
  • Eyes: Trouble with vision in one or both eyes
  • Face Drooping: One side of the face droops or is numb
  • Arm Weakness: One arm is weak or numb
  • Speech Difficulty: Speech is slurred, or the person is unable to speak
  • Time to call 911: If you observe any of these signs, even if they disappear, call 911 immediately.

Prevention Through Lifestyle

A healthy diet and regular exercise are pillars of stroke prevention. A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can reduce your stroke risk by up to 27%. Similarly, regular exercise can lower the risk by 25%. Managing conditions like atrial fibrillation, AKA an irregular, fast heartbeat, also reduces your stroke risk by up to 60%.

Screening: Your First Line of Defense

Screening for stroke risk factors, especially vascular health, is vital. Technologies like duplex ultrasonography can detect blood clots and carotid artery diseases that significantly increase stroke risk. Regular blood pressure monitoring and brain scans for those at risk can catch early signs before they lead to stroke.

Coastal Vascular & Interventional: Your Partner in Stroke Prevention

Coastal Vascular & Interventional is dedicated to providing state-of-the-art care to prevent strokes. Our team is here to help you understand your risks and work with you to reduce them. 

Don’t wait for a stroke to happen. Screening is the best start to prevention.

Start your healing journey with the best vascular care and avoid the risk of strokes. Try our online vein health screening. Visit our vascular health resources or request an appointment today.