Stroke resources provide by Medical City Las Colinas
Experts educate community on signs and symptoms of stroke during Stroke Awareness Month.
For Stroke Awareness Month, Medical City Las Colinas experts are educating the community about prevention and recognizing the signs of stroke during the Coppell Chamber of Commerce’s annual Wellness Festival on Saturday, May 11 at the Coppell Family YMCA.
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, leading to brain cell damage. Timely recognition of stroke symptoms is vital, as immediate medical attention can significantly improve outcomes.
The FAST acronym can help identify the signs of stroke:
- F: Facial Drooping: One side of the face may droop or feel numb. Ask the person to smile to check for symmetry.
- A: Arm Weakness: Arm weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body, is a common sign of stroke. Ask the person to raise both arms to see if one drifts downward.
- S: Speech Difficulty: Slurred speech, difficulty speaking or inability to understand speech can indicate a stroke. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence to assess their speech.
- T: Time to Call 911: Seek immediate medical attention if any of these signs are present. Quick action can save lives.
“Stroke is an emergency that requires immediate attention,” says Nathan Ham, DO, emergency medicine physician at Medical City Las Colinas. “Recognizing the signs early and calling for help can make a significant difference in the patient’s recovery and quality of life.”
Medical City Las Colinas is a Primary Stroke Center certified by The Joint Commission. Learn more about advanced stroke care at this hospital.