A stroke occurs every 40 seconds in the United States, and for American Stroke Month, experts are encouraging people in Indiana to assess their risk.

In 2023, the Indiana Department of Health says, nearly 3% of all hospitalizations were due to a stroke. The disorder is a leading cause of chronic disability and death among Hoosiers, with hypertension as the leading cause. Other risk factors include obesity, smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, and little to no physical activity.

American Heart Association board member Dr. Ravi Johar said it's important to monitor any heart abnormalities.

"If you have a heartbeat that's irregular, that's not beating the way that you expect it to, that can also really increase your risk of a stroke," he said. "Keep those annual exams. Get in with your doctor every year to make sure that you don't have any underlying causes that can increase your risk for a stroke."

There are two types of strokes. An ischemic stroke is caused by a blood clot that blocks an artery, preventing blood supply to the brain. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs if an artery in the brain leaks blood or ruptures. Pressure from the leaked blood can damage brain cells. High blood pressure and aneurysms are often linked to this kind of stroke.

Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke and taking appropriate action can influence treatment and recovery outcomes, so experts are teaching the "BE FAST" acronym. It refers to balance loss, vision changes in one or both eyes, face drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech and a "time to call 911."

Johar stressed the importance of seeking treatment immediately during what doctors call the “golden hour” – the critical first window after stroke symptoms appear.

"We always say to try to use urgent cares or your doctor's office whenever you can," he said. "This is one time that I would say if you have any of those symptoms, any of those 'BE FAST' symptoms, that you go straight to the emergency room."

Eating a healthy diet, especially foods high in fiber and low in saturated fat and cholesterol, is a way to reduce the chance of getting a stroke. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise, not smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption are lifestyle habits that can also reduce the chance of a stroke.

Source: Public News Service