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Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States. It is the number one cause of serious adult disability. Many people, however, do not realize the prevalence of stroke, and may not even realize they are at risk. Behaviors and conditions that can lead to stroke - smoking, hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol - can cause cumulative, negative health consequences that lead to stroke. Even more alarming, many people do not know the symptoms of stroke, resulting in delayed treatment and possibly, greater complications after a stroke.
Are You at Risk?
You are at a greater risk of having a stroke if you:
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You are 55 years old or older
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Have a family history of stroke
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Have suffered a previous stroke
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Smoke
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Have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease or vascular disease
Know the Warning Signs
Among the warning signs of stroke are:
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Weakness, numbness or paralysis of the arms, legs or face, especially on one side of the body
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Sudden blurred or reduced vision
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Slurred speech, confusion or difficulty speaking or understanding
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Dizziness or loss of balance or coordination
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Severe headache for no apparent reason
Crozer-Keystone News and Notes About Stroke
Click here for a complete article featuring Crozer-Keystone Health System physicians that addresses the warning signs of a stroke, as well as what to do if you think that you or a loved one is having a stroke. The article appeared in the May 2003 edition of the Crozer-Keystone newsletter, the Journal.
8 Common Questions
Here are eight stroke-related questions you can ask your physician:
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What are my risk factors for stroke, and what can I do to lower my risk - such as healthy eating, exercise, smoking cessation, weight and stress management?
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What is my blood pressure? How often should I have my blood pressure checked? Should I monitor my blood pressure at home?
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What is my cholesterol? Is my HDL:LDL ratio acceptable? How can I lower my cholesterol?
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What is the latest on stroke prevention and treatment of "mini-strokes"?
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What are the five warning signs or symptoms of stroke?
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Are there test or risk assessments to determine if I am at risk for stroke?
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If I experience symptoms of a stroke, which hospital in the community is the best to go to?
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Besides getting to a hospital immediately, is there anything else I should do if I experience the signs of a stroke?
For More Information
To find a Crozer-Keystone physician who can talk to you more about the risks, prevention and treatment of stroke, call 1-800-CK-HEALTH.
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