May is American Stroke Month

Would you be able to recognize the warning signs of a stroke or know what to do if a stroke is suspected?

Learn the warning signs of stroke. If you or someone with you has one or more of these signs, don’t delay. Immediately call 9-1-1

• Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

According to a recent survey, North Dakotans have a high awareness of stroke warning signs but score poorly on taking action on these warning signs and calling 9-1-1.

Activating the EMS systems is critical because disabling effects of the most common type of stroke can be reduced or reversed if clot-dissolving drugs can be administered within three hours of the onset of symptoms. Time lost is brain lost. Educate people you know about the warning signs and don’t be afraid to call 9-1-1. Stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability, but it doesn’t have to be.
Learn to reduce your risk or stroke and help others learn the warning signs of stroke. Download the free community education materials by visiting www.heart.org/americanstrokemonth.

North Dakota is in the midst of significant stroke systems of care improvements as a result of 2009 legislative action to build a statewide stroke registry. Hospitals are enrolling in this registry to track how well their stroke care is meeting national benchmarks and comparing to similar type hospitals. This data will enable the North Dakota’s Heart Disease and Stroke Program to identify targeted initiatives to improve stroke care. Other enacted legislation established hospital designation as Primary Stroke Centers and convened a group to recommend Emergency Medical Services stroke treatment and transport improvements.

With EMS and hospitals systems looking to improve their stroke systems of care, how ready are you?  This information was provided by the American Heart Association.

— Kim Ruliffson, Wellness Center