May is Stroke Awareness Month, a time to focus on one of the leading causes of disability and death in the United States. The good news is that many strokes are preventable—and recognizing the warning signs quickly can save a life.
At Surgical Clinic, PC, our vascular specialists work closely with patients and their primary care providers to identify risks early and provide treatment when needed.
Recognizing the Signs of a Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either by a blockage or a bleed. When this happens, brain cells begin to die within minutes. That’s why it’s so important to act fast.
Remember the acronym FAST:
- F – Face drooping: One side of the face may appear uneven or numb
- A – Arm weakness: One arm may feel weak or drift downward
- S – Speech difficulty: Speech may be slurred or hard to understand
- T – Time to call 911: If you notice any of these symptoms, seek emergency care immediately
Even if symptoms go away quickly, they could be a warning sign of a transient ischemic attack (TIA)—sometimes called a “mini-stroke”—which should never be ignored.
Understanding Your Risk
One common but often silent cause of stroke is carotid artery disease. The carotid arteries, located in your neck, supply blood to your brain. Over time, plaque buildup can narrow these arteries, reducing blood flow or allowing clots to travel to the brain.
You may be at higher risk if you:
- Are over age 65
- Have a history of smoking
- Have high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol
- Have had a prior stroke or TIA
- Have known vascular disease
Many people with carotid artery disease have no symptoms, which is why screening can be so important for those at risk.
How Vascular Care Can Help
When carotid artery disease is identified early, treatment can significantly reduce your risk of stroke. Depending on your condition, options may include:
- Medication and lifestyle changes to manage risk factors
- Minimally invasive procedures, such as carotid stenting
- Surgical treatment, including carotid endarterectomy to remove plaque buildup
Our team at Surgical Clinic, PC offers advanced evaluation and treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs.
Take Action for Your Health
Stroke prevention starts with awareness and proactive care. If you have risk factors or concerns about your vascular health, talk with your primary care provider about whether further evaluation is right for you.
Most importantly, remember: when it comes to stroke, every second counts. Knowing the signs and acting quickly could save your life—or the life of someone you love.
Visit www.surgicalclinicpc.com to learn more about our services.
Surgical Clinic, PC – Expert care, close to home.
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