Holidays Are a Time of Increased Risk for Stroke
11/20/2024
Brush up on stroke risk factors and symptoms to protect your health
SPRINGDALE, Ark. (Nov. 20, 2024) – In the midst of all the gifts and good times, the holidays also come with a higher risk for medical emergencies, including stroke.
Celebrations often include rich foods and alcohol, and busier social calendars can leave less time for exercise and sleep. Added stress from holiday preparations, shopping for gifts, increased expenses or traveling, along with millions of other holiday activities can affect the body. Cold weather can, too. Taken together, these elements can increase blood pressure or development of heart arrhythmias and blood clotting disorders – all of which could trigger a stroke..
“During this busy time of year, it’s important to give yourself time to sleep and relax and to be mindful when eating and drinking to reduce your risk of an unexpected visit to the ER,” said Northwest Health Stroke Program Director Cynthia West, BSN, RN, SCRN. “Balance the indulgent treats with healthy choices, make time for physical activity, connect with friends and family, and make sure you know the signs and symptoms of stroke.”
Stroke risk increases with age, but strokes can happen at any age. The most important thing to do is recognize the symptoms and get help without delay. Stroke symptoms can be remembered with BE FAST:
- Balance issues
- Eyesight changes
- Face drooping
- Arm weakness on one side
- Speech difficulty/slurring
- Time to call 9-1-1
West added, “If you or someone you love experiences these symptoms – take action to get help quickly. Even if you’re not certain, get to the emergency room for evaluation by a medical professional. Stroke is a time-sensitive medical crisis and timely diagnosis helps to save your brain and life.”
Every second makes a difference so West stresses the importance of calling 9-1-1 rather than driving to the emergency room yourself. The paramedics and emergency medicine technicians of EMS can begin assessment and treatment and communicate with the ER staff while on their way.
Stroke remains the fifth leading cause of death and the leading cause of long-term disability in the U.S. Early detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability and accelerating recovery.
Stroke Ready
Northwest Medical Center in Bentonville and Springdale have earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® as a Primary Stroke Center along with the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark, both symbols of quality from the respective organizations.
Siloam Springs Regional Hospital has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® as a Primary Stroke Center and the American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Acute Stroke Ready Certification.
Additionally, Northwest Health participates in the UAMS Institute for Digital Health & Innovation Stroke program utilizing a high-speed video communications system to help provide immediate, life-saving treatments to stroke patients 24 hours a day. This real-time video communication enables a stroke neurologist to evaluate whether emergency room physicians should use a powerful clot-busting drug within the critical 4.5-hour period following the first signs of stroke.
Should you need them, the providers at Northwest Health’s seven emergency departments are available throughout the holidays.
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