00:00This segment is brought to you by Superfarm, your prescription of trust.
00:15Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the Caribbean and worldwide.
00:22It happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures,
00:28causing brain cells to die.
00:31Tonight on House Call, we'll talk about warning signs, risk factors and why acting fast or better yet, be fast can save a life.
00:40Strokes can happen to anyone, but certain conditions can increase your risk.
00:45Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking and heart disease or even a family history can significantly increase your risk.
00:56The most important thing is recognizing the warning signs early.
01:02Remember the anacronym, BE FAST.
01:05B for balance, a sudden loss of balance, trouble walking or dizziness.
01:11E for eyes, sudden vision changes or trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
01:18F for facial drooping, does one side of your face droop or does it feel numb?
01:23A for arm weakness, can you raise both arms or does one of your arms drift downwards?
01:30S for speech difficulty, is the person's speech slurred or does the person have difficulty understanding or foaming speech?
01:39And T for time, if any of these signs are present, it's time to act now.
01:45Call an ambulance or rush the person to the nearest hospital.
01:49Other important symptoms to note is sudden confusion and a severe headache.
01:55Time is critical.
01:57The sooner medical care is received, the better the chances of recovery.
02:02Treatment often includes blood thinners and surgical intervention depending on the severity.
02:09Therapy such as physiotherapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy are also sometimes necessary.
02:16Preventing strokes often includes controlling your risk factors, lowering that high blood pressure, controlling your blood sugar, getting your cholesterol levels to a normal level and quitting smoking.
02:29Remember, stroke is a medical emergency.
02:33Knowing the warning signs and acting fast or BE FAST can be the difference between life or death and permanent disability.
02:42Take care of your heart, manage your health and don't ignore sudden signs or symptoms.
02:48It's Dr. Mariana Brown for TV6 House Call.
02:52This segment was brought to you by Superfarm, your prescription of trust.
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