May is American Stroke Awareness Month, but here's the kicker, do we really know what a stroke is? Is a stroke different from a heart attack and what are the risk factors? Here are some telltale signs you should know by heart.

Medical Alert Stroke Awareness Month Johan Swanepoel
Medical Alert Stroke Awareness Month Johan Swanepoel
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Before we dive into the risk factors, take a look at some of the facts about stroke in America. And during Stroke Awareness Month in America take the test at the bottom to find out your risk factors and see what you can do to eliminate the red flags in your life.

A COUPLE OF STROKE FACTOIDS IN AMERICA

  • Every 40 seconds someone has a stroke
  • One out of Six people will suffer a stroke in his/her lifetime
  • Stroke is the leading cause of disability in the U.S.
  • Stroke is the #5 cause of death in the United States

Here's where we start to see what we can do when it comes to avoiding stroke. Take a look at the list of risk factors and at the end click the link and take the American Heart/Stroke Association's self-test to identify your potential risks.

TOP TEN RISK FACTORS YOU SHOULD KNOW BY HEART TO AVOID A STROKE

  • Blood Pressure: If yours is 140/90 you could be at risk, it's best to keep your blood pressure at about 120/80
  • Atrial Fibrillation: Basically this just means how your heart actually beats.  Do you have an irregular heartbeat, is it regular or do you not know? First things first, find out
  • Smoking: If you are trying to quit you are at medium risk, and high risk if you are an active smoker (smoking makes it harder for the heart to get oxygen throughout the body)
  • Cholesterol: If you're sitting at 201 or even higher you are at a greater risk of having a stroke
  • Diabetes: Even if you are a borderline diabetic you are at a greater risk for a stroke
  • Exercise: Couch potatoes have the highest risk, but even those who exercise a little have a yellow caution light flashing above their head. Just a little extra movement a day can make all of the difference
  • Diet: Not just the food you eat, but your actual weight can play a big role in your risk level. If you are overweight you are at a higher risk than if you are at a healthy weight.
  • Stroke in Family: Unlike some conditions and ailments, a stroke can be traced back to your genealogy. If someone has had a stroke in the family, you are at a greater risk of having one yourself
  • Drinking: more than 30 drinks a month or binge drinking will increase your chances of a stroke
  • Depression/Stress: This is a factor that many overlook. You, however could be a candidate for a potential stroke if you suffer from depression or high levels of stress

It's time to take notice of the signs and your individual risk factors, now and everyday. Knowing the signs of a stroke are key. Get to know them now and test the likelihood of you or someone you know having a stroke by clicking here.

In Northern Colorado, look to Banner Health to help you in time of need or just to answer questions you may have about strokes.

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