Every year, more than 795,000 people in the United States have a stroke. Yet most Americans don’t consider stroke a major health problem.
Being able to identify the symptoms of stroke is important. Patients who arrive at the emergency room within three hours of their first symptoms tend to have less disability three months after a stroke than those who received delayed care.
This month, American Stroke Month, is an annual opportunity to get the word out about the prevalence of stroke, and importantly, how to recognize when someone might be having one.
Remembering the symptoms of stroke is easy if you think FAST:
• Face drooping
• Arm weakness
• Speech difficulty
• Time is critical—call 911
Throughout May, St. Charles Health System is hosting a series of events to raise awareness about the risk and prevention of stroke. Because May is also Osteoporosis Month, bone density screenings will be offered at no cost.
The events will be held at:
Redmond Senior Center
Tuesday, May 26 from 12-2pm
Prineville Senior Center
Wednesday, May 27 from 10-12:30pm
St. Charles’ stroke coordinators at 541-706-3736 or osteoporosis navigators at 541-706-2989.
(Photos above: Cascade Business News)
