May is National Stroke Month

The month of May is recognized as National Stroke Month.  The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association are urging people around New York and Pennsylvania as well as the entire United States to work together to try and reduce potential causes of stroke and to recognize symptoms of stroke.

In a press release provided by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association studies show as many at 80 percent of strokes can be prevented.  Latest statistics show that strokes are the fifth leading cause of death in the United States.

Strokes claim over 133,000 lives in the United States each year.  In addition they are a leading cause of long-term disability.  According to the press release  most people who suffer a stroke have high blood pressure.  Normal blood pressure readings are considered below 120/mm/80mm.

Recognizing the symptoms of stroke is also extremely vital. The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association say to look for four warning signs of stroke including:

F-A- S -T

F...Face Drooping...one side of the face may droop or is numb.

A...Arm Weakness...Is one arm weak or numb ?  Ask the person to raise both arms..are they even ?

S...Speech Difficulty...Is speech slurred ?

T...Time to call 911 to get emergency help.  Time is critical.

This and additional information is available at:

StrokeAssociation.org/strokemonth